Aug. 10, 2016
Chaplain battles demons through comedy
FORT EUSTIS, Va. —
As retired U.S. Army Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James King walked up to a stranger’s home, his fingers rhythmically glide over his clammed palms and his skin tingles into a lighter tone. He knew the tears to come were unavoidable, and that he must knock on the door, gain his composure as he and another Soldier tell someone that the person they love died serving their country.
While part of King’s duties as a chaplain were to deliver this message and help people through other difficult situations, King said that the rate at which he had to do so became overwhelming due to recent contingency operations. To battle his plight, he sought help through traditional and non-traditional avenues including an all veteran comedy class.