Dec 25 2010

Foxhole Atheist volunteers to take 24 hour duty on Christmas

Categories:

Administrative, Press, Rock Beyond Belief

In the U.S. Army, just about every unit has a headquarters of some sort. This headquarters must be manned at all times by at least two or more soldiers (depending on the building / unit). Typically, there is a rotating roster of soldiers that have to pull a 24 hour shift. Including Christmas Day.

It just so happens that one of the more religious people in my unit, a devout Mormon with a large family, got selected for today’s shift. As a former Christian, I really understand the importance of the family tradition of Christmas Day. I’ve identified as atheist for about a decade now, and I have no real attachment to this holiday at all. Not to mention, the religious family members I grew up with live nowhere near where I am stationed (Fort Bragg, NC).

So, I volunteered to take the Mormon soldier’s Christmas Day 24 hour shift.

He was very grateful, and I really don’t mind doing this. In fact, I’m going to make a tradition of this. I think this idea improves upon the wonderful concepts of the Out Campaign with more than just “I’m an Atheist.” Certainly an important message, but this particular version would read “I’m an Atheist, and I’m your friend.”

Are there any other Atheists doing this already? I bet there are. Please, share your thoughts, right here or on our Facebook page.

Tags: Atheist, Christmas, Foxhole Atheists, Out Campaign, SGT Griffith

5 comments

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1

Hank Fox

December 25, 2010 at 11:00 am (UTC -4) Link to this comment

Justin, a few more details, please, so I can post it on my blog? Your full name, perhaps, or at least a final initial? Any other info you’d feel like sharing?
2

Ted Peterson

December 25, 2010 at 11:08 am (UTC -4) Link to this comment

No way; make that fucker work.
3

Paul Tjaden

December 25, 2010 at 11:23 am (UTC -4) Link to this comment

Sounds like a great idea to me. Good job!
4

African Atheist

December 25, 2010 at 12:16 pm (UTC -4) Link to this comment

this shows great compassion for for fellow humans; something that the religious believe we are incapable of
5

beerslayer

December 25, 2010 at 6:22 pm (UTC -4) Link to this comment

Just make sure that when you want to skip work on International Darwin Day (12-Feb), you get him to cover for you.

About the Author

Justin Griffith is the Military Director for American Atheists. Justin is spearheading Fort Bragg's 'Rock Beyond Belief' atheist festival, and demanding equal treatment for foxhole atheists - including local groups who are currently banned from even meeting on post. After failing the Army's mandatory Spiritual Fitness testing, the remedial training told Justin he could improve his Spiritual Fitness by starting an 'online blog'. You may have heard about it. :) "*Foxhole atheists are fighting for your rights. Please return the favor.*"

Important / FAQs

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In just 5 minutes you can change your records. Walk-throughs provided for all DoD branches. Air Force Navy and Marine Corps can do so online.

- Why should I avoid "NO-REL-PREF" as my religious preference on my official records?
This is a debate-ending reason to fix your records. Also, NRP is just incorrect. Atheists don't have a religion, however, you *do* have a preference about religion.

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Many service members respectfully refuse, and they are fully within their legal rights to do so. You may face some flack from uninformed superiors, but you will definitely win any challenge they throw at you. Contact me if you need to.

- How one NCO got prayer removed from ceremonies.
Not all service members will have this opportunity but if you are in a position to make a difference, this is a play-by-play of an epic victory.

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Free Thought | Free Festival

The free festival on Fort Bragg's Main Post Parade Field was a massive success! Expect updates, highlights, and other footage over the next few months.

UPDATE: A second festival is in the works for Camp Pendleton - a large Marine Corps base near San Diego, CA. Summer 2013

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