Source: Daily News
On December 28, 2005 the Daily News reported, "A 49-year-old Anglican Catholic priest who has served as a Navy chaplain for 22 years, Cmdr. Ted Fanning has devoted his life not only to God, but also his country. And part of that duty is aiding those with beliefs different from his own. He said it's a challenge that every military chaplain faces: making sure every service member under their charge is taken care of while also staying true to their own religion. It's an issue that has entered the news after the Air Force approved preliminary regulations calling for only 'nonsectarian prayer' in public settings. That change came after a former Jewish cadet at the Air Force Academy sued because he felt evangelical Christian cadets and leaders tried to convert him against his will... Fanning said a commitment to pluralism shouldn't come as a surprise; it's in the job description. 'If we can't stomach that, then we don't go aboard,' he said. 'I'm still here 22 years later. I've met people from all walks of life and all backgrounds: White, black, yellow and red. We really do have so much more in common. But I am still a follower of Jesus Christ. I can be that and love and respect all. I will go to bat for [those of other beliefs] to make sure their religious faiths are met, even when contrary to my own beliefs.'"