Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by CDR Charles Ferguson. CDR Ferguson is an active duty Navy Chaplain and the author of the book Presidential Seclusion. The episode begins with the hosts sharing their thoughts about recording the podcast during Operation Epic Fury. They discuss how the conflict could affect their respective jobs even though they are not currently stationed on ships, and reflect on where they were when they first heard the news. The team also takes time to honor the lost and missing servicemembers, recognizing them as this episode’s Heroes of the Week. Damon stresses the importance of having real conversations with Sailors. Damo raises questions about public trust and whether social media is truly a real place for meaningful dialogue. Aaron highlights the responsibility that comes with sharing opinions in public spaces. The conversation then turns to the Navy’s growing appreciation for the Chaplain Corps. The group explores whether connection to a community can serve as a deterrent to suicide-related behaviors, and how COVID impacted interpersonal relationships across the force. They also discuss the CREDO program and whether enough Sailors are taking advantage of the opportunity. CDR Ferguson shares what led him to become a Navy Chaplain and discusses the importance of mental health within today’s force. He also talks about his book, Presidential Seclusion: The Power of Camp David, explaining how his time serving as the Chaplain at Camp David inspired him to write it. During the discussion, he reflects on the writing and release process and shares the experience of delivering a sermon to a sitting President. The conversation continues with reflections on whether the military is becoming “too soft” or simply more professional. CDR Ferguson discusses why he joined the Navy, why Singapore was his favorite tour, and what it means to be endorsed by a faith group. The group also explores the unique relationship between Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists. The episode closes with the hosts sharing their #DoBetter inputs before Charles discusses his retirement plans and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. He also reminisces on the toughest moment of his career. These topics and more are covered in this episode.

Do you have a “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

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Keep up with CDR Ferguson:

Website: https://www.charlesfergusonbooks.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesfergusonbooks?igsh=MTJyb2VwbnB6MHJsZg==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B3tFWxsd7/?mibextid=wwXIfr

X: https://x.com/cfergusonbooks?s=21&t=jTCB_WLip1803qBxIaKXHw

Picks of the Week:

Damo - Unlearn (Humble The Poet) https://www.humblethepoet.com/pages/unlearn-101-by-humble-the-poet?srsltid=AfmBOopbQKAoyzzdCchs9ObGtxBnFqNuVdkJHi3vpN9DjL6wnz3ZcmLj

Charles - Presidential Seclusion (Charles Ferguson) https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/presidential-seclusion-charles-ferguson/1146817887

PTSF Theme Music: Produced by Lim0