WSMR Leadership hosted the United States Auxiliary Bishop for the Military Services

WSMR Leadership hosted the United States Auxiliary Bishop for the Military Services

WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. (December 4, 2024) – White Sands Missile Range Command Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Cordery hosted and toured Neal J. Buckon Auxiliary Bishop of United States of America for the Military Services to maintain faith community support on the range.

Cordery greeted Buckon at WSMR Headquarters and discussed opportunities for mutual support in providing faith-based services to WSMR service members and community.

“I come by once a year to visit the WSMR Chapel and visit with our priest and community. We discuss religious support operations to provide the best religious support for our service members and their families. Working together ensures we do that well,” said Buckon.

“Knowing that Father Neal took the time to visit amongst his 75 other chapels is really a highlight for White Sands Missile Range. I consider it an honor. It is fun to watch the Catholic church as it is growing since my time here so I am excited for the future of where this will take our community,” said WSMR Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Herb Lemke.

Buckon is a retired Chaplain from the U.S. Army. He served in the infantry and transportation corps before becoming an Army Chaplain. He now serves as an Auxiliary Bishop in the Archdiocese and visits 75 chapels in 16 states reaching as far east as Mississippi and as far north as Alaska.