After speaking to Mikey Weinstein, a military member who wasn’t sure they “still belong in the ranks” writes: “Our conversation reminded me of something essential: we do not have to recede into hopelessness.”

From: (U.S. Military Member/MRFF Supporter’s email address withheld)
Subject: Thank you !
Date: May 26, 2026 at 10:09:25 PM MDT
To: Andy Kasehagen <[email protected]>, “[email protected]” <[email protected]>

Dear Mikey and the MRFF,

Thank you sincerely for taking the time to speak with me. Our conversation provided something I have been missing for a while: hope and inspiration. I feel encouraged about the future for our troops, knowing that military members have effective recourse against religious coercion, as well as a passionate and tenacious advocate in you and the MRFF.

Having served for more than sixteen years, I have recently struggled with whether I still belong in the ranks when specific sectarian viewpoints are pushed and culturally expected within the Department of Defense…War… Understanding better what your family has endured, and witnessing how many of our colleagues have faced life-altering injustices; I take hope in knowing that organizations like the MRFF refuse to accept these violations.

Our conversation reminded me of something essential: we do not have to recede into hopelessness. We do not have to turn our backs on the fight for reason, human dignity, and the constitutional defense we each swore an oath to uphold. When a chain of command is used to coerce religious belief (or outright establish one sectarian version as an official national or organizational default), that oath is broken. Religious coercion in the ranks is not a matter of etiquette; it is a readiness problem and a direct assault on the Constitution by the very people charged with defending it. We can and will confront these wrongs.

I have begun reading your publications and following MRFF’s wins, albeit shamefully late in my career. I am proud to voluntarily contribute financially – and however else I can – to the cause. I see the evidence of your impact: decades of challenges answered, and the audacity to refuse the idea that “establishment” and coercion are simply the cost of service. I appreciate how you and the MRFF work to ensure both freedom from religious coercion and freedom of religious expression. This is the balance the Constitution demands.

Defending the freedom of conscience for our brothers and sisters in arms is not optional; it is the oath, and I am ready to do my part.

With much respect, gratitude, and hope

(All U.S. Military Member/MRFF Supporter’s ID Information withheld)