How does Camp Pendleton Cross hurt Atheists?

How does Camp Pendleton Cross hurt Atheists?
by
Chaplain Kathie

It is not as if the government has issued a rule saying the cross "has to" be there. It isn't as if the government said no other faith can be displayed there. So why is the claim of a group of Atheists being considered to trump the needs of these Marines to honor their dead?

If Atheists believe in nothing than how does this harm them? Are they being forced to go up the hill and worship at it? There are many complaints they have that should be taken very seriously.

One of them is when they go to see a Chaplain for spiritual issues and are told they must convert or they will go to hell. Now, that's something to complain about. Being forced to attend a Christian concert is something to complain about. Being forced to go to a church service is another thing to complain about and I will defend them on those issues. No one should be forced to do anything against what they believe. The Marines shouldn't be forced to go against what they believe either. They believe the cross honors the lives lost in combat. They believe the cross symbolizes that sacrifice better than anything else.

Atheists, Marines debate Camp Pendleton crosses

Associated Press

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Camp Pendleton, --

San Diego County - A Marine Corps ruling on the future of a pair of crosses at the top of a steep Camp Pendleton hill isn't expected until next year.

An atheist group wants the crosses to come down. Many Marines and their families want the crosses to stay in honor of comrades killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Base officials have sent a recommendation to Washington, but won't say what it is.
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