MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- What's a killer to do when it's time to leave the Corps? Churchgoers beware; Master Sgt. Robert W. Van Horn, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron Air Traffic Control staff noncommissioned officer in charge, is going into ministry.
"Actually I'll be an assistant pastor," clarified the Vancouver, Wash., native. "We'll be moving to Yuma, Ariz. I was stationed there for 13 years so it's kind of like our home."
Van Horn said the decision to become a minister was made with his wife in 1992.
"We were led into pastoring through the confirmation of other people," explained Van Horn. "I've had many opportunities to assume leadership roles. I think my experience in the Marine Corps has proven invaluable for what I'll be doing."
Since his decision, Van Horn has been actively involved in ministry.
"I've looked for opportunities to serve wherever I've been stationed," said Van Horn. "I pastored at Grace Bible Church here for a year while the pastor went on furlough."
Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Karakas, ATC training chief, also attends Grace Bible Church. Karakas knows Van Horn as both pastor and SNCOIC.
"The thing that sticks out about him is whatever he's involved in, it's to the fullest extent," said Karakas.
According to Capt. Joseph B. Turkal, ATC officer in charge, Van Horn reveals this commitment particularly by setting the example for his Marines.
"He shows Marines he cares by being in front of them and imparting his knowledge to them," said Turkal. "He also takes a lot of time and effort counseling his NCO's."
Teaching and counseling are both important qualities for a pastor, but what do Van Horn's co-workers think about his new career?
"It's going to be a shame when he leaves, but the fact that he's got a calling above and beyond the Marine Corps is all that matters," said Karakas.
According to Turkal, Van Horn's "calling" is understood best by getting to know him.
"Everything about him makes him perfect for the job," said Turkal. "I think that's what's going to fulfill him and make him happy, and I couldn't be happier for him."
"My name plate on my desk has an eagle globe and anchor on one side of it, and a cross on the other side," said Van Horn. "When Marines come in this office to talk to me, I ask them if they want to talk to me on the Marine Corps side, or I point to the cross and ask if they want to talk to me on this side. Many times, they'll point to the side with the cross on it, because they're at a point in their life when they need it. I always counsel them that Jesus is the answer to their problems."
Van Horn's eyes light up as he speaks the name. For him, it's not about a church; it's about a person.
"I want people to know who Jesus Christ is," he explained. "As indestructible as they think they are, I think Marines realize there's something more than just themselves."
Although Van Horn will assume the position of associate pastor June 1, it won't be his last "oorah."
"The Marine Corps has been my entire life up to this point, and it will continue to be," said Van Horn. "I'll be very close to a base in Yuma. I hope to always be actively involved with military people."