Camp Pendleton hosts first known Islamic celebration

As the sun sets over the hills of Camp Pendleton, Aug. 31, a feast known as an iftar was enjoyed by base’s Muslim community in celebration of Ramadan, a sacred time of the year for Islam.

The South Mesa Chapel was the site of the first-known base-sponsored iftar hosted by Camp Pendleton’s first Islamic chaplain, Navy Lt. j.g. Asif I. Balbale. He is one of five Islamic chaplains ever commissioned by the US naval service.

“Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar,” said Balbale, who is with Amphibious Assault Schools Battalion. “It is a 30-day period where Muslims fast during daylight...