Rev'd James M. Hairston

“Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle”

-Psalm 144.1

Fresh off the heels of Armistice Day or more colloquially, Veterans Day I’m reflecting on the image of the Warrior, the military service member. The above photo depicts the stereotypical view (complete with ate up uniform, sloppy face paint, and arrogant facial expression) of the service member. This view has done more harm than good.

I must admit that the image works for recruitment. Who doesn’t want to be these guys team?!?

The issue is plain and simple, its promotes toxic masculinity. The kind that leads to toxic leadership which can result in death. The military is composed of all types of people, from all walks of life. The one uniting factor is the willingness to die for one’s country; regardless of whether or not their country would do the same for them.

– Fr. JMH