Heart for God, heart for Soldiers

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Anita Stratton | Capt. Peter Pritchett, chaplain, takes time to go out to where the Soldiers prepare to leave on mission. Pritchett builds relationships with the Soldiers as he talks with them before every convoy mission.  

CAMP ADDER, IRAQ

03.17.2010

Story by Spc. Anita Stratton 

41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team

CAMP ADDER, Iraq - An hour before very mission, Capt. Peter Pritchett, chaplain, heads toward the pull yards. He is there for the convoy escort teams as they pick up their assets and prepare to roll out on their missions.

Pritchett with Task Force Volunteer, 2 Battalion 162 Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), considers time with the Soldiers a key part of his role as chaplain. Pritchett doesn't wait for the Soldiers to come to him. They don't always have the time. He goes to where they work.

"I like doing the convoys: sitting with the soldiers while they are waiting around. It can really build relationships," Pritchett said. "I talk to the Soldiers get to know their issues and let them know I am available to help."

"When we are out here, he is out here," said gunner Spc. William Estevan of Pueblo Acoma, N.M. "He is approachable on any level, anytime."

Pritchett also advises the command on different issues such as ethics and the morale of the Soldiers. He is a conduit for the Soldiers. He relays the needs and concerns of the Soldiers to the leadership as a neutral party.

"I hear the issues and tell the commanders," he said. "If the commanders don't know the issues, they can't fix them."

Deployment is stressful not only for the Soldiers but for their families too. Pritchett helps to facilitate care for families in need.

"I connect with the rear detachment chaplain to coordinate with families back home," Pritchett.

Pritchett is a positive influence on the infantry Soldiers.

"He is the best chaplain I ever met," said convoy commander Sgt. Thomas Paul. "He loves Christ, a passion for Christ."

"He is always a good spiritual leader, very friendly and down to earth," said Estevan. "He is good for the troops, good for morale."

• Date Taken: 03.17.2010
• Date Posted: 03.28.2010 14:23
• Story ID: 47347
• Location: CAMP ADDER, IQ