Rodney Allen Metzler
Major Rodney Allen Metzler served with dedication and honor as a chaplain in the United States Air Force from April 15, 1966, to February 14, 1975. During his nearly nine years of service, he provided spiritual support and pastoral care to service members stationed at various strategic locations and under challenging conditions. Major Metzler’s Air Force career took him to diverse postings that spanned both the mainland United States and overseas. He served at bases in Honolulu, Hawaii; Sacramento, California; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and San Marcos, Texas, adapting his ministry to meet the spiritual and emotional needs of military personnel and their families in each community. Notably, Major Metzler also served in Vietnam, where his presence and guidance offered solace and strength to those facing the hardships of war. In Vietnam, he exemplified the resilience, compassion, and moral leadership that are hallmarks of the chaplaincy. The call to serve his country ran in the Metzler family. His brother, Dennis Metzler, served in the United States Navy and completed three tours on the USS Midway, stationed in the waters off Vietnam. Their simultaneous service created a profound family legacy of sacrifice and dedication to supporting American forces abroad. Major Metzler’s years as an Air Force chaplain left a lasting impact on all those he ministered to, providing comfort and moral courage to those far from home. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment, compassion, and faith under fire, remembered and honored by the countless men and women who served alongside him.