VICENZA, Italy – Battlefields that once had muskets and bayonets now have AI and drones, but one thing has not changed – the need for Soldiers to practice their faith.
Chaplains from the Vicenza Military Community stand next to a handmade quilt made by community members, Lynn and Terry Sim to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Chaplain Corps. The celebration was held at the Caserma Ederle Chapel on July 29, 2025.
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For 250 years, U.S. Army chaplains have been there for the troops, a fact discussed July 29 during a lunchtime banquet held at U.S. Army Garrison Italy’s chapel on Caserma Ederle.
“Chaplains will always meet your needs, no matter your spirituality,” said Lt. Col. Robert Elkowitz, USAG Italy’s chaplain.
The Vicenza Community comes together to honor the Chaplains’ Corps 250th anniversary at the Caserma Ederle Chapel on 29 July, 2025.
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The U.S. Army Chaplains Corps was founded on July 29th, 1775. It was founded in order to protect the rights of Soldiers to practice any religion they choose, or none at all. The Army Chaplain Corps actively represents five major faith groups and nearly 120 religious denominations, according to their website.
“The chaplain corps was created shortly after the founding of the country, and that General George Washington understood the importance of having chaplains in the military,” Elkowitz said.
After Elkowitz spoke, the youngest Soldier and oldest Soldier present, cut the cake. The oldest was, in fact, Elkowitz. The youngest was Private First Class Trinity Davis.
During the event, the community welcomed Lynn and Terry Sim, who presented their handmade quilt that honored the chaplain’s corps. The Sims aim to support the community in any way they can, including volunteering on post.
Command Sergeant Major Ricardo Moreno, The US Army Garrison Italy Command Sergeant Major discusses the centerpiece quilt with Terry Sim and Chaplain Maj. Brian Bailey at the Caserma Ederle Chapel on July 29, 2025 during the anniversary celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army Chaplains Corps.
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Chaplains serve the Vicenza community by offering a listening ear, providing support during difficult times, and helping individuals connect with their faith and spiritual needs, said Lynn Sim, a retired Air Force captain and a member of The Church of Latter-day Saints.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help, it’s ok to need help but it’s not ok to not ask,” he said.
For more stories about the Vicenza Military Community visit us at www.army.mil/Italy
