USAREUR Team,
Yesterday I had a session with the USAREUR Chaplains. During that discussion, I noticed that CHAP Shabazz - our Muslim Chaplain - was not drinking water like the rest, and it reminded me that we were in the period of Ramadan.
As you all know, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The period of fasting starts one hour before dawn and soldiers can intake no food or water (1-1/2 hours before sunrise) until after sunset. That's particularly tough here in Europe, where we have early sunrises and late sunsets if Ramadan falls during one of the summer months.
Muslim Soldiers are required to pray at certain times during the day at a minimum the noon and mid-afternoon prayers will occur during the duty day. I asked CHAP Shabazz what we needed to know, and he reminded me that if work is required past normal duty hours, he recommended that the soldier be released 1/2 hour before sunset in order to participate in the observance of the traditional Iftar (Fast Breaking Meal) and after sunset prayer with the local Muslim community. He also mentioned that during this period of spiritual and physical discipline, Commanders should give consideration that practicing Muslim service members be exempt from participation in rigorous physical training requirements.
Remember that at the conclusion of Ramadan, Eid-Ul-Fitr (The Festival of Fast Breaking) occurs. A period of marked joy and happiness follows the prayers with a large feast given immediately afterwards, and those of us of other faiths can learn much about our Muslim brothers and sisters during this festival. Sue and I are going to try and attend one of these Eid feasts, as we have over 250 practicing Muslim Soldiers in our ranks in USAREUR.
Just a reminder..because it is part of our greatness, and our diversity.
MPH