KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- In the United States Air Force, where mission readiness is paramount and stress is inevitable, one enduring presence offers unwavering support, trust, and a safe space for all Airmen: the U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corps.
At the 403rd Wing, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, the Religious Affairs Office serves as a constant source of strength. The Chaplain team, made up of dedicated chaplains and Religious Affairs Airmen, is more than just a spiritual resource—they’re a lifeline for those navigating personal, professional, and emotional challenges.
“There are a lot of places Airmen can go for help, but what sets us apart is confidentiality.” said Chaplain (Capt.) Chris Steverson, 403rd Wing chaplain. “When an Airman walks through our door, they’re not just a rank or a duty title—they’re a human being needing care, and everything they share stays between us.”
This promise of 100% confidentiality, protected both by law and military policy, allows Airmen to speak freely without fear of judgment or repercussions. Whether discussing stress at home, grief, mental health struggles, or simply needing someone to listen, the Chaplain Corps offers a place of refuge.
And it’s not just about religion.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that we only provide spiritual or religious counseling,” said Chaplain (1st Lt.) David Gamble, 403rd Wing chaplain. “That’s just one part of what we do. We are equally focused on emotional and mental wellness. We meet Airmen where they are—no sermons, no pressure. Just compassionate, judgment-free support.”
Master Sgt. John Ables, 403rd Wing Religious Affairs non-commissioned officer in charge, emphasized that belief isn’t a requirement for support. “You don’t have to be religious to come talk to us,” he said. “Our care is holistic. Whether it’s stress, loss, relationships, or life transitions—we're here for it all.”
According to the First Amendment, every American has the right to practice their religion freely—and in the military, chaplains are on the front lines of protecting that right. From advising commanders on religious accommodations to providing moral and ethical counsel, they ensure that spiritual freedoms are upheld across the force.
Air Force Chaplain Corps supports Airmen through confidential care, compassion
Chaplain (Capt.) Chris Steverson, a member of the 403rd Wing Chaplain Corps, speaks with Airmen during a unit visit at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., May 6, 2025. The Chaplain team serves as a vital emotional, mental, and spiritual support system for Airmen across the 403rd Wing, offering 100% confidential care protected by law and military policy. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Emily Bloodworth)
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Air Force Chaplain Corps supports Airmen through confidential care, compassion
Members of the 403rd Wing Religious Affairs Office walk toward the Roberts Maintenance Facility during the May Unit Training Assembly at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., May 6, 2025. The Chaplain team serves as a vital emotional, mental, and spiritual support system for Airmen across the 403rd Wing, offering 100% confidential care protected by law and military policy. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Emily Bloodworth)
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Air Force Chaplain Corps supports Airmen through confidential care, compassion
Members of the 403rd Wing Religious Affairs Office walk toward the Roberts Maintenance Facility during the May Unit Training Assembly at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., May 6, 2025. The Chaplain team serves as a vital emotional, mental, and spiritual support system for Airmen across the 403rd Wing, offering 100% confidential care protected by law and military policy. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Emily Bloodworth)
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“We’re advocates,” said Gamble. “We help Airmen practice their faith if they choose to, but we also help leaders understand the emotional and spiritual well-being of their teams. We’re here to serve all Airmen, regardless of belief.”
That advocacy often extends beyond the chapel walls. The Chaplain team conducts regular unit visits to check on morale, offer informal counseling, and simply be present.
“Sometimes, just having someone show up and ask how you’re doing makes all the difference,” said Tech. Sgt. Jerry Primes, 403rd Wing Religious Affairs program manager. “We’re not just available when things fall apart—we’re here every day, embedded with the units, building trust so Airmen know where to turn before a crisis hits.”
But the reach of the Chaplain Corps doesn’t stop at home station. According to Primes, chaplains and Religious Affairs personnel also deploy alongside Airmen, standing on the frontlines to provide spiritual, emotional, and ethical care—even in combat zones.
“Chaplains are non-combatants—they don’t carry weapons,” said Primes. “That’s where we come in. As Religious Affairs Airmen, we provide personal security support, ensuring the chaplains can safely do their jobs in any environment.”
That mission can involve a wide range of duties—from assisting with mortuary affairs and facilitating memorial services, to offering spiritual comfort during someone’s final moments. Religious Affairs Airmen also send care packages to those who’ve suffered loss while deployed, provide grief counseling, and, in some cases, deliver the heartbreaking news of a family member’s passing.
“We see people at their lowest, especially in deployed environments,” Primes said. “We’re there during their worst day. We’ve prayed with Airmen during their final moments, held their hands, cried with others. It’s sacred work.”
Even while surrounded by war, chaos, and tragedy, the Chaplain Corps remains a source of peace and calm.
“No matter the environment, our job is to bring hope,” said Primes. “Sometimes it’s through a prayer, a conversation, or just sitting silently next to someone. But in those moments, we make a difference.”
Leading the 403rd Wing Chaplain team is Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Joseph Huffling, who is always available for Airmen seeking support, guidance, or simply someone to talk to.
“Our door is always open,” said Steverson. “Whether you're going through a crisis, a transition, or just need someone to listen, we’re here for you.”
Airmen from the 403rd Wing are encouraged to stop by the Chaplain’s Office in Room 207 of the Wing Building or attend Sunday services on base. For support or more information, they can call the office at 228-377-0400.
No matter the challenge—on base or on the battlefield—one truth remains: Airmen are never alone. The Chaplain Corps is always ready to listen, guide, and walk with them—every step of the way.