The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) named Paul Vicalvi as its Centurion of the Year Award recipient at the Chaplains Commission Centurion Banquet, held Jan. 14 in Alexandria, Va. The Centurion of the Year Award recognizes leaders who have exemplified commitment to the ministry of evangelical military chaplains. 

“Paul Vicalvi is a shining star among military chaplains ­— well-educated, committed to long-standing service and a religious freedom advocate,” said David Cyr, Executive Director of the NAE Chaplains Commission. “He is one of the best, and we are sincerely thankful for his excellent service to the NAE.”

Col. Vicalvi entered active duty in 1977, initially serving as a battalion chaplain in the 1/504th battalion, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C. Subsequent assignments led him all around the world, including Italy and South Korea, and to top military positions. His last assignment on active duty was as the Commandant at the United States Army Chaplain Center and School.

In 2007, Vicalvi joined the staff of the National Association of Evangelicals and served as the Chaplains Commission Executive Director for over four years. He was also involved in forming the Chaplains Alliance for Religious Liberty.

Vicalvi has a bachelor’s degree from Houghton College, a Master of Divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, a Master of Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary and a master’s degree in National Strategic Studies from the National Defense University. He is also a graduate of the National War College.

He and his wife, Pamella, live in Kimberling City, Mo. They have five children and 10 grandchildren.

Centurion of the Year Award recipients are nominated and elected by members of The Centurions, the top-level supporters of the Chaplains Commission. The Centurion Banquet was held in conjunction with the Commission’s annual meeting, which brings together endorsers of evangelical chaplains to discuss issues that impact the ministries of evangelical chaplains in the military, Veterans Affairs and other civilian chaplaincies.