War’s Stresses Take Toll on Military’s Chaplains

War’s Stresses Take Toll on Military’s Chaplains - NYTimes.com:

It is not only the combat soldier who can experience the effects of war. Those who minister to them are also at risk. This article focuses both on the effects of personal trauma as well as the toll of chaplains who do their best to be of service.

"Just as it has claimed so many other members of the military, the war in Iraq has taken a toll on chaplains. Although they do not engage in combat, chaplains face the perils of war as they move around Iraq to visit troops. None have been killed, but some, like Chaplain Brunk, have been wounded. Many report post-traumatic stress disorder and other stress problems."

After being injured by a bomb blast, Chaplain Brunk was returned to service several times. Even after losing 3 days of memory and passing out during a meeting, it took a Vietnam vet to recognize the signs of PTSD and get him returned stateside, where he how ministers to soldiers at Ft. Hood in Killeen, TX.