Lazy, Slothful or Overly Self-Indulgent.

FIT TO FIGHT?

Any casual review of Salvation Army photo journalism in the USA Western Territory reveals a rather alarming incidence of obesity amongst uniformed Salvationists. It would require extensive research, unlikely to be conducted, to determine if the rates of obesity among Salvationists differs significantly from USA norms. There is no doubt that obesity is a growing health hazard in the USA and in all developed nations with related health issues of diabetes, heart disease, earlier onset of Alzheimers disease and other costly impairments.

For this observer this obesity phenomenon raises several questions:

- Are candidates for officership screened for health concerns, including obesity?  Since TSA is self-insured as an employer providing health insurance, what fiduciary responsibility does the Candidates Board have  to consider the long term financial burden that obesity and it's health impact imposes on SA funds?

- Are officers already serving who are medically obese counseled concerning this extreme health risk?  Do periodic personnel reviews and evaluations address the delicate issue of "are you too fat"? Are incentives offered to encourage improved physical fitness?

- Do officers and uniformed soldiers have a moral obligation to be physically fit and to give the appearance of fitness? Society, fairly or not, judges people on appearance. Grossly overweight persons in SA uniform create an institutional image of sloth and indolence. Try your best, it is impossible to convey a convincing image of industry, activity and energy when burdened with obesity.

- I am not suggesting that the many uniformed Salvationists who are obese are either lazy, slothful or overly self-indulgent.  I am, however, recognizing that public image is exceedingly important and wondering whether part of the cost of Salvationism is the responsibility to look "fit to fight".

Art Johnstone
Former Officer

USA Western Territory