In December 2014, United States Navy Chaplain Wes Modder received complaints and was threatened with discharge after allegedly voicing his beliefs on sexual morality during counseling sessions. During these sessions, Modder spoke out against homosexuality and sex outside of marriage. In February, Navy Captain Jon Fahs stated in a detachment for cause letter that Modder was intolerant and would not be able to “function in the diverse and pluralistic environment.” Fahs then made a recommendation that Modder be officially removed from his position.
When Modder submitted a request for religious accommodation, he was denied when he was told that his freedom to practice his religion was not infringed upon. Rather, he was told that he was not being sensitive enough during his counseling sessions. In response to the matter, 35 members of Congress signed a letter defending Modder and stating that he should not be punished for voicing his faith. The letter argues that even if the counselees do not
agree with the chaplain, the chaplain is still entitled to preach according to his or her denomination’s doctrine.
