Hegseth orders military chaplains to wear insignia displaying religious affiliation instead of rank

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered military chaplains to wear an insignia on their uniforms that displays reflects their religious affiliation, ending the tradition of wear one that displays rank. 

Hegseth announced the change Tuesday.

He said chaplains will retain their ranks as military officers, but the change is designed to make it easier for service members to approach the religious leaders about sensitive topics and emphasize the religious aspect of their jobs. 

“A chaplain is first and foremost a chaplain and an officer second," he said. "This change is a visual representation of that fact, specifically unique to the role of a chaplain. They are first and foremost called and ordained by God."

The secretary also said the Pentagon will use 31 faith codes for the insignia, instead of the over 200 that currently exist, and that a significant majority of service members only used six of the codes.

"This brings the codes in line with its original purpose, giving chaplains clear, usable information so they can minister to service members in a way that aligns with that service member's faith background and religious practice," Hegseth said.

The move comes as Hegseth promotes religion in his department. The secretary has hosted monthly prayer services at the Pentagon since last spring and brought guest speakers to talk to troops.

"These are the first steps toward restoring the esteemed position of chaplain as moral anchors of our fighting force," Hegseth said of the latest changes. "Theirs is a high and sacred calling, but they can only be successful if they are given the freedom to boldly guide and care for their flock."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.