Padre supports British troops in Afghanistan
A People In Defence news article
28 Oct 09
Support for British troops on operations in Afghanistan comes in many different forms, including chaplains, who cater for many religious beliefs as well as being a source of support for all those who need them.
Reverend (Wing Commander) Andrew Turner officiating at the Battle of Britain Sunset Ceremony held at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan
[Picture: Sgt Gemma Bibby, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]
One such chaplain, who serves the Royal Air Force, is Reverend (Wing Commander) Andrew Turner, who currently ministers at Kandahar Airfield, a coalition military base for the International Security Assistance Force with reputedly one of the busiest single runway airports in the world, second only to London Gatwick.
Padre Turner also assists at Camp Bastion in Helmand province, the main British military base in Afghanistan.
Having started his working life training to be a solicitor, followed by a job as an Administrative Assistant for the Ipswich Health District, Padre Turner's thoughts switched to joining the Ministry.
With the support of his wife, Liz, Padre Turner started ordination training at St John's College in Nottingham, after which he spent several years serving as a rector in East Suffolk parishes before joining the Royal Air Force in 1991.
The possibility of joining the Armed Forces as a chaplain was suggested by a fellow student at Theological College but he finally made up his mind to do so when a Scout Leader told him that 'you need to work with the young when you are young'.
Padre Turner said:
"In the military, there is an automatic inclusivity and acceptance that comes with the uniform. A chaplain works outside the chain of command which encourages all ages and ranks to come and talk to you....
We do love our chaplains! Go read more on the Reverend (Wing Commander) Andrew Turner here.
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