Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey

Going into battle without a weapon might seem unimaginable, yet this is the reality for combat chaplains who accompany soldiers into the heart of conflict. For centuries, throughout every American war, these leaders have stood alongside our nation's troops, offering hope and solace in their darkest hours. Regardless of their faith—be it Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, or otherwise—combat chaplains serve as pillars of strength for soldiers of all beliefs.

Join us for a screening of the inspiring new documentary Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey followed by a discussion with filmmaker Chaplain Justin D. Roberts and Doug Jones. 

The film follows a young, former Army chaplain who embarks upon a unique journey that’s inspired by the extraordinary, often untold stories of the chaplain heroes who came before him. From a U.S. Army Ranger who later became a chaplain and was immortalized in the blockbuster movie Black Hawk Down, to the four chaplains who sacrificed their lives aboard the U.S.S. Dorchester during World War II, to the remarkable story of a chaplain whose remains were recently returned home after 70 years and is possibly the Vatican’s next saint, this film honors the unsung heroes who bring courage and comfort to the front lines.

This event is sponsored by the Colonel William B. Nolde Lecture Series within the Department of Military Science and Leadership.