In the U.S. Army, just about every unit has a headquarters of some sort. This headquarters must be manned at all times by at least two or more soldiers (depending on the building / unit). Typically, there is a rotating roster of soldiers that have to pull a 24 hour shift. Including Christmas Day.

It just so happens that one of the more religious people in my unit, a devout Mormon with a large family, got selected for today’s shift. As a former Christian, I really understand the importance of the family tradition of Christmas Day. I’ve identified as atheist for about a decade now, and I have no real attachment to this holiday at all. Not to mention, the religious family members I grew up with live nowhere near where I am stationed (Fort Bragg, NC).

So, I volunteered to take the Mormon soldier’s Christmas Day 24 hour shift.

He was very grateful, and I really don’t mind doing this. In fact, I’m going to make a tradition of this. I think this idea improves upon the wonderful concepts of the Out Campaign with more than just “I’m an Atheist.” Certainly an important message, but this particular version would read “I’m an Atheist, and I’m your friend.”

Are there any other Atheists doing this already? I bet there are. Please, share your thoughts, right here or on our Facebook page.