Saleha Jabeen who became the first woman Muslim chaplain in the US Department of Defense was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in December.
India-born Saleha Jabeen US military’s first female Muslim chaplain on February 5, graduated from Air Force Basic Chaplain Course. Jabeen said that she is grateful and is aware of the responsibility bestowed upon her and will set an example to show that there is a place in the military for anyone who wants to serve.
Jabeen said: “I did not have to compromise on any of my religious beliefs or convictions. I am surrounded with people who respect me and are willing to receive what I bring to the table as a woman, a faith leader, and an immigrant.” She said that she is provided with numerous opportunities to learn, develop skills to equip herself to become “a successful officer and a chaplain in a pluralistic environment.”
“I get to provide spiritual care to all service members, guardians, and families and advise the commanders on religious and moral matters regardless of my faith, ethnicity, or gender,” said Jabeen.
Jabeen who became the first woman Muslim chaplain in the US Department of Defense was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in December.
Air Force Chaplain Corps College staff chaplain Capt Mara Title said Jabeen’s addition to the chaplain corps will be a great benefit to everyone. Title said: “The Air Force Chaplain Corps endeavors to promote diversity in all respects.” “Chaplain Saleha Jabeen’s presence enables an even broader scope of spiritual care for our Airmen, and for this we are very grateful,” she said.
Air Force Chaplain Corps College staff chaplain Capt John Richardson said: “The bottom line is to care for Airmen – every single Airman. When they [chaplains] care for Airmen in a professional way, every other aspect of our calling falls into place: advising leaders and providing for the religious needs of our force.”
