WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- A Pentagon spokesman says a cross outside a military chapel in Afghanistan was removed because it violated U.S. Defense Department regulations.
Cmdr. William Speaks told Politico no permanent religious symbols are allowed inside or outside of base chapels. The cross outside the chapel at Camp Marmal, a German base in northern Afghanistan, violated the rule.
Politico said it had heard from several U.S. soldiers at Camp Marmal. One said the chaplain had given no explanation for the removal except that he "had to."
"Not having it there is really upsetting," one soldier said. "I walk by the chapel daily on the way to chow and the gym, and seeing the cross is a daily reminder of my faith and what Jesus accomplished for me. It is daily inspiration and motivation for me to acknowledge my faith and stay on the right path."
Soldiers said no one at the base had complained about the cross and a Jewish service was held at the chapel while it was outside.
