The grandson of Protestant theologian Francis Schaeffer follows his Christian vocation in an unexpected direction:
ABC: John Schaeffer’s decision to enlist as a Marine after high school baffled his family and community. He was the product of a New England prep school, a young athlete and poet from a family of intellectuals.
“To the outside world, I was somewhat embarrassed,” his father, Frank, tells ABCNEWS. “When a kid joins the military, you know, the idea is, ‘Oh, that’s for the working class. That’s for people who couldn’t make it in school. That’s for someone who wants benefits.'”
John’s unorthodox decision profoundly changed the way he and his father thought about each other, about family, community and even their country. Together they wrote a book, Keeping Faith, recounting their journey.
Unlike the other services the Marines did nothing to sweeten the pill. When Genie, looking concerned and somewhat drawn, turned to one and asked, “But when he’s done with the Marines, I mean, what will he have?” The recruiter replied, ” ‘Have,’ ma’am? I don’t understand you.”
“I meant what will he, uh, get out of it?”
The recruiter sat up a little straighter and his cheeks flushed. “He’ll be a United States Marine, ma’am!”
Just want to say, how much I enjoyed the article in the American Legion Magz. by Frank Schaeffer. My husband is Korean Vet, but son never had to serve. I personally think all should serve somehow during their life time. God bless all those who are serving and the families that support their efforts. I don’t often go to an authors web site, and have the nerve to say anything.