NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – In the midst of long hours, high-pressure decisions, and the weight of an intense operational mission, a quiet but powerful force moves through the ranks, offering comfort, counsel, and a steadying presence.
Chaplain (Maj.) Dell Harlow-Curtis serves as more than the spiritual leader of Joint Task Force Southern Guard (JTF-SG). He is a lifeline for service members navigating the emotional and ethical complexities of Department of Homeland Security-led migrant operations.
Whether providing a moment of reflection, an outlet for confidential counseling, or simply a reassuring presence, their role is essential in sustaining the well-being of the force.
"Chaplains do more than lead prayers,” said Harlow-Curtis. “We listen, we assess, and we advocate."
Harlow-Curtis has planted seeds throughout Operation Southern Guard, ensuring troops and civilians have the support they need to stay resilient and mission-ready. His work extends beyond religious services and includes morale-boosting activities, crisis intervention, and ethical advisement to leadership.
"Whether in the joint operations center, on the flight line, or in the barracks, our mission is to ensure no one carries their burdens alone while also ensuring commanders have the insight they need to lead effectively," Harlow-Curtis added.
Recognizing that morale is a key component of readiness, Harlow-Curtis has taken a proactive approach to fostering a sense of community.
He regularly circulates through operational areas, checking in on troops and leading initiatives that provide much-needed relief from the stresses of deployment.
“I have personally benefited from the chaplain being here in several ways. By providing church service on the Leeward side of the island, I had the opportunity to worship with other believers in a professional and organized setting,” said 1st Lt. Alec C. Zimmerman, the 821st Contingency Response Element defense force commander. “Additionally, I’ve had access to spiritual guidance, care, and mentorship in a 100% confidential setting, reinforcing my resiliency in a deployed environment.”
Harlow-Curtis and his network of Army and Navy chaplains at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay have seamlessly integrated religious support into mission planning, ensuring JTF-SG remains spiritually and emotionally resilient.
Their presence not only uplifts individual service members but also strengthens the collective force, reinforcing the values of compassion, unity, and unwavering support.
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