First Muslim Chaplain in the history of the National Guard

Image by: Martin Wells

2nd Lt. Rafael Lantigua hopes to recruit more Arabic speakers.

First Muslim Chaplain in the history of the National Guard

From: Martin Wells
Length: 00:03:42

2nd Lt. Rafael Lantigua could be the first Muslim Chaplain in the over 300 year history of the National Guard. Read the full description.

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Piece Description

There has never been a Muslim Chaplain in the entire history of the National Guard, stretching back to Colonial days. That could change when 2nd Lt. Rafael Lantigua finishes his training. Lt. Rafael Lantigua is currently training to be a chaplain in the Nebraska National Guard in Omaha, Nebraska. He would be the first Muslim Chaplain in the state National Guard, and when his superiors did some checking they found out he would be the first, period. Lt. Lantigua talks with Omaha Public Radio's Martin Wells about his decision to become a Chaplain, and his efforts at recruiting more Arabic speakers to the Guard.

Broadcast History

Aired on Omaha Public Radio, KIOS-FM on Friday, March 13th at 7:30 a.m. and 4:40 pm.

Intro and Outro

INTRO:

A Nebraska National Guardsman could become the first Muslim chaplain in the entire 372 year history of the National Guard. 2nd Lieutenant Rafael Lantigua (lan-TEE-gwah) recently sat down with Omaha Public Radio’s Martin Wells to talk about why he decided to become a chaplain and what he hopes to accomplish.

OUTRO:

2nd Lieutenant Rafael Lantigua expects to finish his chaplaincy training in 2012, when he’ll become the National Guards first Muslim chaplain.