“Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey” is a documentary that captures the stories of America’s combat chaplains, released on November 8. Director Rich Hull embarked on a four-year journey to create the film and was initially unaware of the experiences of military combat chaplains. He was deeply moved by their stories of courage and selflessness, as these individuals go to war without carrying a weapon, driven by a sense of duty beyond a mere paycheck. The film is narrated by former U.S. Army chaplain Justin Roberts, who struggled to transition back to civilian life after serving in Afghanistan.
The documentary explores the history of the Chaplain Corps and the stories of 419 chaplains who sacrificed their lives in service to their country. The film takes an unexpected turn when Roberts travels to Wichita, Kansas, for the funeral of Emil Kapaun, an Army chaplain who posthumously received the Medal of Honor in 2013. Originally not a focal point of the film, Kapaun’s story became central when his remains were finally identified and sent for a proper burial in his hometown. The funeral of Kapaun “shut down the whole town of Wichita,” as people from all over came to honor not only him but also all combat chaplains.
The heart of “Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey” lies in Kapaun’s homecoming and burial, which resonates deeply with audiences. Director Rich Hull believes that the film found its structure and heartbeat in this pivotal moment, capturing Roberts’ personal journey and the inspiration he drew from former combat chaplains. The Chaplain Corps, with roots tracing back to the Revolutionary War, embraces individuals from all faiths, including Christians, Buddhists, Muslims, and Jews. The film showcases the unique opportunity for chaplains to practice their faith daily and navigate difficult questions of life and death on the front lines.
The presence of multiple faiths within the Chaplain Corps allows chaplains to interact with soldiers from diverse backgrounds, requiring them to bridge divides and address profound questions amidst the chaos of war. The film highlights the challenges and rewards of being a chaplain in the midst of conflict, where bullets fly and lives hang in the balance. “Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey” offers viewers an intimate look into the experiences of these dedicated individuals and the impact they have on those around them. The documentary is currently playing in theaters nationwide and provides a compelling tribute to the untold heroes of the Chaplain Corps.
