As chaplains, we are classified by the Geneva Convention as non-combatants. In order to not jeopardize that category, the US Army Chief of Chaplains mandated that chaplains should not be carrying weapons of any kind. It then falls on our Chaplain Assistants (56M) to be our “bodyguards” and security when we do ministry out in the field, especially in the battle zones. It is an immense blessing when your 56M is qualified and proficient with his or her weapon.