My father-in-law was a Protestant chaplain in the Navy for 30+ years, retiring in 1986. He was the first Black chaplain to reach the rank of Captain, and was never passed over for promotion until he was one of three up for Chief of Chaplains. The Navy picked a Catholic for the position, as a Protestant was retiring and they used to rotate the CoC position among Catholic, Protestant and Jewish chaplains.
He has advanced Alzheimers now. He would be broken hearted to see what the chaplaincy has become.
Alzheimer’s or not, I hope you will convey to him to the last the heartfelt appreciation, respect, and prayers of all of us he has served.