Naval Medical Center Portsmouth recently dedicated its Chapel Office in honor of Capt. Thomas David Parham, a trailblazer in Navy history and a cornerstone of spiritual support for generations of Sailors. NMCP also awarded the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award to Dr. Nelson to recognize his part in co-founding the NMCP Clinical Education Residency program and his forty years of service to Portsmouth Naval Hospital.
Capt. Parham’s legacy includes many historic firsts:
• Co-founder of the Navy’s Clinical Pastoral Education Residency program.
• First African American Chaplain in the Navy
• First Black Naval Officer to attain the rank of Captain
• First Black Chaplain to serve aboard ship
His commitment to faith, service, and Sailor well-being set a foundation that continues to strengthen the spiritual readiness of our force today.
Photo Courtesy of the Naval History and Heritage Command
Date Taken: | 04.11.2025 |
Date Posted: | 04.18.2025 10:02 |
Photo ID: | 8981551 |
VIRIN: | 250418-N-NI512-1000 |
Resolution: | 600x751 |
Size: | 51.8 KB |
Location: | PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA, US |
Web Views: | 7 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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