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IG faults generals who appeared in video

Four military generals, two in the Air Force, violated ethical standards by appearing or participating in a Christian fundraising video filmed inside Pentagon hallways, according to the Defense Department’s Inspector General’s office.

Maj. Gens. Peter Sutton and Jack Catton Jr. did not secure approval to promote the evangelical group Christian Embassy while they were in uniform, according to the inspector general. Two Army brigadier generals, Vincent Brooks and Robert Caslen Jr., are accused of the same.

Their appearance, according to the report, implies Defense Department sanctioning of a religious fundraising message, which is forbidden under separation of church and state. Christian Embassy, founded nearly 30 years ago, is known for its connection to politicians and senior military officers.

The video, filmed in 2005, runs about 10 minutes and features several testimonials. Sutton, who has since retired, has told investigators that he and Catton both accept full responsibility for their actions, according to the report.

The inspector general’s office recommends corrective action against the generals and three other officers named in the report. The Military Religious Freedom Foundation, a watchdog group, initially requested an investigation. The group has again pushed for congressional hearings.