“Monk to Military:” Deploying with the Navy, Marines, and Army

Father Ken Nielson entertained the idea of entering the Priesthood from his youth. After attending a Catholic High School Seminary, he decided to pursue a career in music instead. After several years in music, he reentered the seminary and took his vows to become a Monk. He then received a further calling to become a Navy Chaplain serving with the Marines. After two tours supporting the Marines in Iraq and one tour on an Aircraft Carrier, he decided to transfer to the Army, to be “where I was needed the most.” After tours to Iraq and Afghanistan with the Army, he was assigned to the Parish at West Point. In this interview, Father Nielson discusses his four combat tours and dealing with PTSD, counseling, and casualties.