Religious Soldiers
Not surprisingly, as it was built within America's "Bible Belt," Christianity was well represented at Camp Howze. Religious services were offered for at least six different denominations. With local churches and camp chapels open to soldiers year-round, their options for religious services appeared in newspapers throughout the region including the Camp Howze Howitzer.
Though in smaller numbers, Camp Howze also recognized the existence of at least one minority group of non-Christians and supported them with spiritual leadership. Jewish service members received support from the Army, the USO, and Gainesville's Jewish community.
Although, at first glance, the multitude of articles and photographs acknowledging the presence of so many historically underrepresented and marginalized American citizens gave the appearance of unity, there was always one exception to this facade of equality and inclusivity. Black service members remained permanently segregated and second to their "white" counterparts even in matters of religious faith.
