Department of Defense to Reduce Officially Recognized Religions

The Department of Defense is reducing the number of officially recognized religions from approximately 211 to 31, according to a report by Military.com based on a memorandum from the undersecretary of defense dated May 20. This is the first revision of the list since 2017. The new list reportedly excludes atheists, pagans, humanists, and New Age faiths. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the previous system was impractical and that the reduction aims to streamline religious affiliation codes. Critics, including Hemant Mehta, have raised concerns about the exclusion of various faith groups, arguing it may hinder support for military personnel with minority beliefs. The Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration recognizes over 80 emblems of belief for headstones, which may not align with the new military list. Retired Gen. Steve Schaick expressed concern that the reduction could jeopardize the legitimacy of chaplains serving smaller faith groups.