Dobbins Chapel Needs Renovations, New Location

by Master Sgt. James Branch, 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs,

"Since post World War II through operation Enduring Freedom, this sacred white colored building has greeted people during the best times, and not-so-best times of their lives," said (Ret) Chief Master Sgt. Dick Roberts, member of the Dobbins Chapel Foundation.

Roberts retired from the Air National Guard in 1985. He was stationed at Dobbins.

In May 2005, Air Force Reserve Command approved and funded the demolition of the base chapel, because as a host Reserve base, Dobbins is not authorized a chapel and would not provide renovation funds to make major repairs and bring the facility up to current building codes. The chapel at that time had stood on Dobbins' soil for 56 years.

"This chapel has been used for numerous weddings, funerals, retirements and promotion ceremonies, inductions and meetings," said Roberts. "Religious services are held there regularly during Unit Training Assemblies."

Officials at Dobbins have made it clear they don't want to see this storied building fade away.

"The Dobbins Chapel holds a special place on our base and in our hearts," said Col. Tim Tarchick, 94th Airlift Wing commander. "Unfortunately, we simply can't keep the current arrangement in place anymore based on guidance we've received from headquarters. We also have to consider a number of force protection issues based on the facility's current location."

Tarchick believes the current collaborative approach between the unit and chapel foundation will lead to a favorable conclusion this summer.

"It's a sensitive issue," he said. "Hopefully, enough money can be raised by the foundation to achieve an outcome that is a win-win for all."

The Dobbins Chapel was built in 1942, but didn't arrive to Dobbins until 1949. It, along with 602 others was manufactured by contractor Kent's Furniture Company and dispersed to military bases around the country.

Major Gen. George Finch, chief of Air Division, National Guard initially requested the chapel for Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. In 1949, the chapel was delivered to Dobbins on a flat-bed truck and dedicated in 1950 as a memorial for fallen soldiers of WWII.

Chaplain (Col.) James H. O'Neil, writer of General George S. Patton, Jr.'s prayer for good weather, dedicated the chapel.

Seven years ago, the foundation began work toward relocating the chapel.

With many options exhausted, the foundation set its sights on the Gen. Lucius D. Clay National Guard Center, formally the Naval Air Station Atlanta.

"The cost to renovate and relocate the chapel will cost the foundation $300,000," said Roberts. "The State Adjutant General agreed to take the chapel into the National Guard Center's inventory once it's up to code."

Patrons wishing to donate to the Dobbins Chapel Foundation can contact them at (770) 455-3094 or (404)-558-0155.