MERCIFUL FATHER ABOVE,
We gather together this day to remember and celebrate with joy and thankfulness the ones who have been on the field of battle this past year. The troops marching in the name of Liberation and Freedom have had some mighty Victories in that time. We ask that you will take our gratitude and burn it into our hearts so that we may never forget what these valiant young heroes have done. Let them understand and know in their hearts that we do honor them for their sacrifices and their service.
Father, we remember this day the ones who gave all. They placed themselves "between their loved homes and the war's desolation." They are not returning to their families, but have instead returned to the greater Home to which we all aspire one day. We remember this day their families who are left with a hole in the fabric of their lives. We ask that these who grieve will be comforted and healed. Let them experience as well in the quiet parts of their souls the resounding gratitude we feel toward them.
We remember this day those who have been wounded in body, mind, soul, or spirit. Father, we ask that you will surround them with your healing angels. Bring them to the greatest measure of peace and healing that is possible to them. Grant their families and friends who surround and love them with the gifts of infinite understanding, patience, and love. Let the strengths of these families be multiplied, and let the weaknesses be healed or supplied by your grace.
We remember this day the ones who are yet on the battlefield in the various fronts in the War on Terror. Protect with Heavenly Armor those who are in danger. While we have had a victorious year, we know that the job is not yet finished. Let the past year's victories be the inspiration in difficult times to continue the fight. Let the victories won by your grace be sealed and burned on the inward parts of not only our troops, but also in our leaders and especially our people. Let our people be brought to a rapt attention, awareness, and rememberance at the appropriate time in November when it is the time to choose the course of action our country will take. Guide our people, and help them to have clarity of Vision. Guide us and direct each one who goes to the voting booth. We petition you in the most urgent means possible for you to take command of our nation and of her electoral process. Take command of the 3 branches of government. Bring us into alignment with the Plan and Will you have for this nation which was from its infancy ordained to be a nation dedicated to trust in you, God, our Father.
"Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n-rescued land
Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserv'd us as a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust"
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Father, let this be a day of rejoicing, but above all,let it be a day of Hope. We hope for our own nation, but our hopes are renewed when we see the pictures of the little girls in Afghanistan and Iraq who can now go to school. We see hope in the faces of old men and women who know that the thugs of Saddam Hussein will no longer come and drag their loved ones away. We see hope the faces of young vigorous men who are busy thinking of ways to use their new freedoms to pursue their capitalist dreams. We see hope in the faces of those who have suffered under religious persecution who can now worship in the way they have been denied from doing for too long. We are grateful for this Hope and we ask that it be nurtured and expanded throughout the earth, according to thine own Will and Timing.
Father, accept our gratitude, and praise in the name of the One Sent. Let our prayers be made perfect in accordance to thy Will.
Amen
1 posted on
03/19/2004 12:52:00 PM PST by
TEXOKIE
To: .30Carbine; 2ndIDVet; 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub; Alamo-Girl; amom; anniegetyourgun; armymarinemom; ..
UPDATED PRAYER LIST AS OF 3/14/04
Welcome Home
~Radixs son, 2LT Radix Jr, Army
~Joseph Hudson, and other POWs home safe, released from hospital at Ft Bragg on 23 April.
~LBGA son Tyler, special ops, home safe, tired but in good health.
~HiJinx SPC Anna, BlackHawk Crew Chief has come home safe and sound
~Major Sellers, USMC
~Char and Dales son Dean came home from Iraq at the end of April!
~SGT Elsa, USA
~Potlatch-son safely back home after 10 months and managing to go around the typhoon and got home to Texas.
~Mosby-Dan is BACK IN THE USA!!! HOORAY! He touched down in CA yesterday (10/5/03)AM after traveling for 2 solid days! Arrived home on 10/16/2003!!!
~FrogMom-Mike arrived home on Friday (10-10-03) after being extended several times.
~TruthNtegrity-Ben returned last week, just in time for his Grandmother's 80+ something Birthday. He has several weeks off before he goes to Fort Bragg for more training. Please pray for his future in the Marines, for his continued training and for his safety wherever he is.
~TruthNtegrity-My younger brother, John, is home from the ME and in fact, retired from the Navy after 30 years on Oct. 3. I'd really appreciate prayer for his retirement plans - for employment that uses his special capabilities that made him so valuable to the USN for 30 years.
~TruthNtegrity-pilot LTC Andrew deployed, has returned home, seen his 9-month old son whom he'd never seen and is being transferred to a different Air base. Pray please for this move and for his family to settle in quickly. =UPDATE=
pilot LTC Andrew has returned, seen his newborn son and is undergoing some additional training; He expects to be redeployed as part of the Navy group going back in Summer 204. Marine Keith is still in Iraq. An ironworker - he is helping rebuild schools and hospitals.
~Texokie- Mystery-ak's Mike is due home today for a two week RR. That time is being extended because they were "his kids" that were shot down yesterday in the helicopter. They'll be busy visiting families of the crash members =UPDATE=Mike is back in Balad, he left the 18th..his R&R was not extended.We attended prayer services for his 3 crewmembers, Mike spoke of each of them to the crowd. We visited family in St. Louis and managed to get all our Christmas shopping done before he left.. We celebrated ThanksGiving on the 16th.
A very bittersweet reunion, Mike's mind was never at home. always thinking of his troops in Balad.
~snippy_about_it-Freeper bkwells and the entire Tarawa crew are home and in San Diego
~snippy_about_it-Freeper DesertDog aka Karl son of freeper beallyoucanbe is home now also.
~snippy_about_it-Radix's son is home now too
~Joy Angela-My cousin, Steve Jr. has come home to stay.
~HiJinx-Good news! My friend Mary (Intel Warrant Officer) e-mailed me from Ft. Dix yesterday, she's back in the States for good. She had a successful tour of duty in Iraq, none of her troops were hurt, and they accomplished their mission while she was there.
~GatorGal- I am happy to report that my husband recently returned home after his two year deployment to the Middle East.
Rich, Tom and Alex are likewise back to Reserve status.
Jason remains on active duty with the Army, but will be home for a three week R&R for Christmas and New Years. He and my sister will be able to celebrate their 7 year anniversary while he's home.
Another friend of ours named Tom is with the Army National Guard and is currently deployed to Afghanistan.
~Peach-My stepson, Steven, has come home safely from Jordan and seen his baby girl.
~EuroFrog-My soldier is home now so he, and SSG Kris.
Troops prayer list
Updated as of 15 Feb 04
~amom-Jim Robinson founder of FreeRepublic Navy Vet, Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club member, who allows us the use of this cyberspace, his charming wife Shelia, and sons Chris and John and their families.
~Chong-Commander-In-Chief, President Bush, and his family.
~amom- Our leaders, our fallen, our missing and the innocent.
~FrogMom- son-in-law SSG Mike in Baldad, Iraq, husband and father of two adorable children
~FrogMom-Joseph Hudson, and other POWs home safe, released from hospital at Ft Bragg on 23 April.
~EuroFrog-SSGMike ,currently in Balad, Iraq. We extend our prayer for safe return, 180 days are almost up! SSG Kris
~FrogFish-cousin SPC Chad of the 3rd Infantry in Kuwait.
~maranatha-son Mitchell, USAF air refueling wing in Oman
~SAMWolf-Freeper BKWells, and Freeper Radixs son
~Tarheel-Capt. Eric US Army
~Tiki-Anton Peterson, Steve McKinley, Tim McKinley, Cory Simmons
~prairiebreeze-Marine Corpl. Nick, Navy seaman Brad
~LBGA- son Tyler, special ops, home safe, tired but in good health.
~HiJinx SPC Anna, BlackHawk Crew Chief has come home safe and sound and her husband is due home shortly, and PVT Tom B., cannon crewman. Tom is on his way over now after being here for the birth of his son.
~Mr. Silverback-Corpsman Michael USN discharged, Specialists John Colin Army near DMZ in Korea, Pudgeless and his unit the 333rd Mps of the Ill National Guard. County Board member Hadley returned to Freeport.
~JohnDoe#1-son Sergeant First Class Terry in Kuwait
~h8klintoon-Maj. William Glover, Sgt. Ellis Caudle
~fatima- Adam-spec ops, granddaughter Karen Army in Bagdad, Jim USN USS Constellation, freepers Daughter in law Patty Air Force.
~Shezza-darling husband Scott (Freeper Giles Corey) US Army
~amom-Defender2, 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub
~Lando Lincoln-Seth Crawford USAF
~68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub-the Men and Women at the Coos Bay Coast Guard Station. Along with active duty Coast Guard FReeper CWO Jackson.
~My back yard-brothers youngest son Bryce Owen USNavy sailed right after Christmas
~RedWhiteBlue-nephew LCpl. Brian Kaul, USMC in Kuwait
~WLansberry-1st Lt. George Lansberry USAF
~doug from upland-PO2 Josh, USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT
~OhioWfan- Son PFC Eric, Army Reserves, activated in Bagdad , sons unit buddy, Sean. Eric has begun a Bible Study at the Palace Grounds in Baghdad, and has asked us for prayer for him, and for the study.
~Heylady-Son Lt. Gregory Worden, 1ST CAV
~amom-Freeper Mike, WUSAF, Air National Guard
~GatorGirl -Husband LT Gator- USNR, Brother in Law-Jason-USNR, Cousin Rich-USNR, Friend Tom-USNR, Friend Alex-USAFR
~amom-Major Sellers, USMC in the ME. Son Dillion and mom Betsy. 4 mo old. ...DADDY'S HOME!!! as of 5/24/03. Mom Sally and Dillon are doing fine.
~buffyt- Son in LawRobby Ellis Boswell USN
~WellsFargo94- CPT Bill, CPT Dan, MAJ John, CPT Tom, SGT Brian, CPT Dave, LTC Jim, Chaplain Dave, COL N, COL L, COL S, General Franks, LTC Pat, Dr. W
~GoRepGo-Husband Willie, Navy Corpsman, Ist MEU somewhere in the sandbox.
~amom-FReeper bkwells (Deployed on USS TARAWA (LHA-1)) from the Canteen.
~ProudArmyWife-Sgt. Roney 4th Infantry Divison (hubby)
~exhausted momma-Nephew, Matt Morgan, Navy
~Severa- husband (FR screen name Hostel), USN Submariner, brother Wes, USAF Little Rock AFB, friend Tosca, USN Corpsman, USNS Comfort, husband's cousin David, US Army, Fort Gordon, GA
~ stand4something- husband Mike AND son Scott, (both Air National Guard) deployed to the Mid-East)
~ JulieRNR21- a friend's grandson, Wesley in the USAF
~ LKR59-Timmy (Army) in Kuwait, John (Army) in Afghanistan, and Karen (Army) in Saudi Arabia
~Joy Angela-cousin Steve Jr. early 20s with a 6 year old son
~FReeper Proud Legions
~FReeper Hostel, USN Active Duty Submariner
~ OhioWfan -son Eric
~ mystery-ak -husband Mike and their son Jonathan both deployed
~ Gogranny - grandson
~ Inspectorette -son Eric
~ Slip18- nephew is aboard ship - active duty USN
~ anniegetyourgun - nephew Josh
~ Himyar - son Robert
~ homeschool mama- nephew Michael is in the Navy
~ CyberAnt- nephew Jody
~ milagro- son is deployed in the Mid-East
~ BlessedAmerican- nephew David Marine returned to San Diego 7 May 03.
~ Jewels1091 -friends of daughter, Ross (101st airborne), deployed to Mid-East,
Chris (Navy) heading for Mid-East, cousin, Phil, serving in the US Navy
~ TruthNtegrity - lurker friend Pats nephew Ben (Marines) Kuwait and his mother Tracy.
~ TruthNtegrity- younger brother, John (Navy), has been deployed, and his family.
~TruthNtegrity-, US Navy - my cousin's son, pilot LTC Andrew deployed, Marine Keith.
UPDATE-Marine Keith. Still in Iraq. His son was hospitalized with a serious leg infection 2 weeks ago, and 10-days in a hospital for an active 8-yr old is tough. He is now recuperating quickly. Pray for his Mom, who is now MOM-DAD to their 3 children, the youngest 16 months.
~ Hoosiermama- Brad who has been deployed, His brother Jeff who has just enlisted. Shanty & Josh (husband & wife just deployed separately), Bill and Bill (both military academy grads), (when you teach, they're all your kids) Brad from Maigrey, Sgt. C. Cole
~notpoliticallycorewrecked- husband soon to be deployed
~notpoliticallycorewrecked- military email buddies
~ Wneighbor -son-in-law Thomas deployed, and his pregnant wife and mother of 3.
~ zlala -brother is deploying to the Mid-East
~ tamikamaria- cousin Annette (Navy) stationed on an aircraft carrier,
best friends brother is in the Army, sister is in the Navy
~ Radix -son is HOME!! WELCOME HOME!!!
~ Pippin - niece in the Air Force, nephew in the Army stationed in the Far East
~ WomanofStandard -a dear friend has three sons in the military
..Dustin (Army) - Mid-East-Troy (Air Force) Italy, Tyler (Army) just returned from Afghanistan and currently at Ft. Bragg, NC
~ baseball mom - friends nephew, Thomas (Navy), just deployed
~ a special Freeper -brother is an Army Chaplain
~ hoosier_RW_conspirator -friends son Danny (Army), just deployed
~ ivoteright - hubby (Air Force) has been deployed, he is also b-i-l to Im ALL Right!
~ kemathen7 -boyfriend, John (AirForce)
~ GretchenEE -son of dear friends, Silas (Army), deployed to Mid-East
~bentfeather- Long Cut, Ms Cut, Mini Cut
~Warriormom -Three CIA agents whose plane crashed and may have been kidnapped in Colombia, dear friend Greg, deployed to Mid-East
~ Freeper Per-Ling active duty in the Navy has a wife and 2-year-old
~ leenie312 son Nicholas is in the Marines
~ rentense-friend's brother, Brian Z.
~ AF_Blue -active-duty AF, and family
~southern grit- coworker and dear friend SFC Sarah Augustine Kuwait
~Antijen-Jason Bontrager USN, Justin Lapp USN, Jack Snowden USN
~Antijen- friend Mark
~Jim O-L Cpl Travis Groce & Wife L Cpl Brandy Groce in Kuwait
~Snippy_about_it- Brian Wells (bkwells)and crew deployed on USS Tarawa, also his family back here at home, FReeper KKING (Tim is a contractor working in Kuwait in support our troops) , 2LT Radix Jr, Army-deployed (son of Freeper Radix), Freeper M1911A1 MSgt of Marines and his wife,freeper M0sby, Freeper Mojo2001's husband Navy-deployed, SPCKarl Gray Army-deployed(son of freeper beallyoucanbe)
~Blue Scourge- Sgt. Daniel Mayzik 3rd Armor Div.
~seams2me-Cody Buhler USN, David Blassingame USMC, Trey US Army, Darby Bishop US Army
68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub-Long Cut (USN) and Mrs. Cut, SK1 Thurman (USN) and her sister Trish (USMC)
~Maigrey-cousin C.C.
~Condi2008- Friend J.D.
~tamikamaria- cousin Annette, best friends brother and sister
~lizbet-cousins son Marc
~jtill- friend P.A. and family
~steams tome-adopted servicemen Trey, David, Cody and Darby and their families.
~CENTVRIO EQVITVM and his loved ones
~Reagans Moms brother -in-law Dave
~Judith Annes friend Deanas son
~Judith Annes daughter-in-laws two brothers
~AFPhys
~AFPhys friend C.M.
~olliembs two young patients now serving
~Patsor Mikes brother Tom and friend Kevin
~Char and Dales son Dean came home from Iraq at the end of April! He's fine
~Cindys stepson Adam
~Jim and Terris son Matt
~Joys son Michael
~Kay and Dons son-in-law Stephan
~Jans nephew Michael
~patriciaruths cousin Ed
~Marvin and Carolyns sons Alan and Andrew
~TigerCaps coworker Kevin
~JimRob-Two Nephews
~MozartLover-nephew
~Gnad-active duty
~Trish-active duty
~deadhead-cousin
~Armymarinemom-three sons
~WaterDragon-Son-in-law, grandson
~Maigrey-cousin
~ladtx-two sons
~Mama_Bear-nephew
~SKI Thurman-active duty
~David Osborne-active duty
~Boxerblues-two sons and SGT Erik with the 101st somewhere in the desert.
~the piper-son
~sheeza-husband. Mr. shezza and his unit are coming back from Iraq! They're leaving from Kuwait on Thursday 18 SEP and will arrive in Baltimore (or maybe New Jersey, depending on Isabel) on Saturday morning.
~Diver Dave-niece
~weldgophardline-brother-in-law
~Future Snake Eater-cousin
~Warrior Nurse-active duty
~SpookBrat-nephew
~Consort-2 daughters
~big easy-a friend whose husband is a major(air ranger, delta force) would like our prayers.
~amom-FReeper fc2tomschermuly who says " God willing, we'll all come home safe and sound."
~ladyinred-Eric Ludwick and Scott Ludwick brothers and both deployed. Sons of a lifelong friend. They have a sister, Pamela who is also enlisted Army recently.
~bell-Sgt. Jason Beach, Joshua George USMC , Daniel Bristow USMC
~maranatha-General Franks and Don Rumsfeld,
~NRA2BFree-Major Peter Horn US Special Forces, LCPL Jonathan Marquez USMC, CPL Antonio Martin USMC
~GilesB-namesake Pfc Gyles, stationed in South Korea,
~armymarinemom-Spc. Brad-Army in Kuwait and active duty. Pfc Stuart-Army and Sgt. Graham-USMC.
~BeforeISleep-my son-Marines
~.30Carbine-Jim Ferry, Vermont Army National Guard, Chemical Weapons Defense Specialits/Trainer and his wife and 2 small children.
~AppyPappy-two adopted Marines from the next county who are in Kuwait.
~Lando Lincoln-remembering the gallant UK and Aussie troops who are at our side.
~condi2008-our friends, Jimmy, Brian, Jon, Dustin and their families.
~Chong-Chris Kollhoff, nephew-to-be who is shipping out tonight for Iraq.
~Textide- Please pray for Wes, my cousin, a Marine Captain now home from Kuwait.
~TEXOKIE- Niece, active army nurse still stateside. Niece's hubby, army, deployed to Afghanistan (returned home), Niece's brother-in-law, active army, deployment status unknown at this time
~Dubya-Royal Marine commandos
~twstearman-80+ crew of this itty, bitty ship I'm on. USS Devastator (MCM 6) home ported in Texas, is a mine countermeasures ship (i.e., mine sweeper), been deployed since early January, and we have no idea when we're going home. We all know now it's time to go to work.
~Dutchgirl - Norman Hamm USAFR and his mom and family. Hamms are old AF brat buddies, all grown up.
~BeAllYouCanBe-My son Karl, a National Guard infantryman and part of 293 Infantry Regiment. He is 26 has a wife and 18 month old daughter and lived in San Jose CA before last November when he was called up.
~Peach-my stepson - Steven Seaha, Master Sgt., Air National Guard, Jordan.
~Jaded- Matthew K. in the Navy
~Wild Irish Rogue- my brother,John-Special Forces, Airborne-deployed Mid East.
~Southflanknorthpawsis- my son-in-law, USMC Staff Sergeant, Dan; currrently in Kuwait.
~OhioWfan-Aaron, son of one of my students who is a Marine and has been stationed on the Iraqi border. Andy, the boyfriend of another of my students, involved in Psy Ops.
~weldgophardline-Merle ,in the Air Force Brother in law of weldgophardline. All the troops.
~NYCop-SSgt. Rojas, currently deployed in Kuwait and awaiting Iraqi POW's, hes a co-worker and friend
~Kinetickitty-Master Seargent Jenkins, SSG John Burton , SPC Paul Dobiesz , SGT Freeman, SFC Lewis, LT Nelson, LT Ortez, SGT Call, SGT Rogers, PVT Potao, SPC Morgan, PVT Surface, Master Seargent Wiley, Lt Col. McNeely, CPT Love, CPT Vaught, SSG Fortney. Most of these soldiers are in various Units with the 4th Infantry Division these are friends of mine and my husband mostly from the Ft. Hood area.
~HiJinx-those who have chosen to take up arms against tyranny, keep them safe, help them to accomplish their objectives, bring them home to their loved ones
~NotJustAnotherPrettyFace-my nephew - paratrooper with the US Army
~glory-nephew Adam, is working patriot missiles in the Army. Hubby's best buddy, Eric, who is in a refueling unit for the Air Force.
~DAVEY CROCKETT-Steve Countryman US Airforce, Josh Ray US Marines, Brad Newman US Navy, Tex (my son buddy) US Navy
~baseballmom - asking for prayers for freeper Mystix, USMC
~Mrs.Liberty-nephew Sgt Charles Mapa, Jr. USAF C17-Crew chief.
~2ndIDVet- J.B. and B.G.
~jwalsh07-1st LT Brian Helsin Iraq, Ist LT Alex DAmico Marines
~free kitty-close friend Barbara who just went in the Army.
~The Right Stuff- my penpal, Sadie from the USS Boxer.
~sakka- email friend, Rick, Navy USS Constellation and all the others on his ship.
~baseballmom-my brothers brother-in-law, Chris, USAF, Blackhawk Pilot-Iraq. "Lord, guard and guide the ones who fly,..."
~mountaineer-a friends sone, Sgt Andrew J with the 101st Airborne in Iraq, and another friends son, Stephen M with the USAF somewhere in the Kuwait area.
~UncleHambone-Jeff M and Steven L of the 3rd Marines.
~Valin-waitress at my favorite greasy spoons nephew is over there. Marine Cpl Mark Arnold .
~amom- co workers boyfriend Cpl Pablo Gabriel Alarcon USMC Kuwait
~snickers via homeschool mama- Alexis Lankford, HHC 1-63 Armor 173rd Ariborne Brigade, older daughter in Kuwait Heather (Lankford) Ballone 124th Transportation Co, my son Clayton Lankford 2-118th Infantry.
~pollywog- grand-nephew SPC Jonathan Cook from Eagle Idaho in Kuwait (probably in Iraq by now). He will be 21 on April 7th.
~TEXOKIE-SGT Elsa, USA, was on the front lines in Iraq receiving prisoners of war as they surrender now back home as of Aug 28; her brother CPT Mark, USA, at FT Benning, GA; her boyfriend, CPT Nat, USA, 1st Cav at Ft. Hood, TX and her cousin SP Miranda waiting for deployment at Ft. Sill, OK.
~SAMWolf- Karl, BeAllYouCanBes son, entered Iraq on Tuesday (25 Mar 03) Infantryman National Guard in support of the 101ST Airborne Division.
~Xenalyte-Daniel Osborne, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 1-43rd out of Ft. Riley, Kansas friend of a friend. Danny Oz, special ops, son of a friend and colleague.
~judicial meanz- the men and women of the 29th ID, and the Virginia Guard all over the world.
~dandelion-PFC Valentine Leyva, 3rd Battalion, 1st Division in the Marines. He is a friend of my daughter. And her daughter (OK, Airman) stateside.
~Smocker-my TWO brothers now both safely stateside.
~repubmom-Wendys son Chris, a marine on the front lines. A prayer for Wendy too who is home with two daughters and shouldering this by herself.
~TEXOKIE-Matt S. Army
~Hamilton2-Jeffrey Ron Davis and his wife Megan
~Dubya -Mary and Freddy Medellin parents of Cpl. Jesus Martin "Marty" Antonio Medellin Fort Worth's first casualty in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
~beachn4fun-CW2 Dan Alexander stationed in Kuwait and PFC.Kenneth Lewis Marshall USMC
~Phyllis-my adopted soldier PFC Edward, Operation Enduring Freedom, U.S. Army.
~HiJinx-txradioguy along with his 4 kids.
~LetMyPeopleGo-brother, SSG Michael (Dom), over there in the Army. He has a wife and a son.
~Mosby-husband, MSgt. Daniel Edwards USMC
~boxerblues-son who has been injured in Iraq.
~RobbyS-Son Joel is 2nd Lieutenant with the 2nd ACR in Baghdad.
~StarCMC - brother and fellow FReeper, kjfine, to your list. Capt. and commander of the 969th MCT in Iraq traveling his normal location 9-11, thru 9-16. Prayers for his safety in travel and for his safe return to his normal location, and eventually, HOME. KJFine returned safely to his normal location -- no incidents whatsoever!
~TexKat-son SGT. K. Smith in Kuwait
~SnarlinCubBear - Jason U U.S. Army - mechanic, on the Blackhawk helicopters & SnarlinCubBears penpal.
~manna- Jay, who is in Bagdad with the Army, husband of someone manna knows.
~RagtimeCowgirl-Gen(s). Myers, Pace, Abizaid, Sanchez - Amb. Bremer, the Iraqi Council members and a couple of 'reporters' in Iraq: SSG. Washington in Tallil - heading up convoys, and "Chief Wiggles" in Baghdad interrogating those who know info that could save lives.
~Explorer89- brother, John, who will is leaving this week to escort convoys along "Ambush Alley"
~DAVEY CROCKETT- Brandon McFadden US Army Military Police 210th.
~fatima- Karen, Jim and David and for those who have gone to God,eternal rest.
~RagtimeCowgirl- CheneyChick who's working with the troops she respects re. recruitment and retention - and will be heading to Iraq in the future. Also
Also, Scott ("war daddy") S., a hero who's returning to Iraq soon as a civilian security consultant.
~Mr.Silverback- John Buford retired Army Lt. Colonel currently away from home training soldiers in peacekeeping and community relations; he has a wealth of knowledge on these matters from Bosnia and Kosovo tours. Also an outstanding community leader.
~Mr. Silverback-PFC David Modes II of Apple Canyon Lake, IL. recuperating at Landstuhl. Adam L. Thomas, 21 of Burbank, IL and Chad Fuller, 23 of Potsdam, NY. KIA, their families. SSgt Richard Gordon, who has just received orders for a 15 month tour in Korea.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Charles - Freeper boomop1 (21 years AF) - and for his son Michael in Iraq w/ the AR 3rd. BDF
~VHAW-co-worker and friend Mike Brooks, a C-12 pilot going over there.
~Tiki-Cathy Mitchells husband Tony, Air Force Commander in Afghanistan. Also friend Leota's nephew in Baghdad and a grand nephew who just completed basic training in the Marines.
~Kellie-husband, Phillip Bell Army reservist from 795th Postal from Bethany, MO serving in Balad, Iraq.
~Dlfromthedesert-A Tucson soldier,Sgt. Sean Cataudella killed in Baghdad on Saturday. August 30. He left behind a wife and 3 small children, including an infant he had never seen. His father, Sal Cataudella, is taking the loss of his only son very hard.
~Ragtime Cowgirl, Texokie and amom- anonymous FReeper FRiend." going into harm's way.
~HighRoadtoChina- nephew Paul Robert Bennett, lance corporal, USMC, in Kuwait now after serving in Iraq.
~Ragtime Cowgirl- John F., Melbourne, Fla...Army, home from Iraq on break.
~Wneighbor- Jacob who is on his way to his own deployment and the new fast friend of Wneighbors daughter.
~My back yard- Wneighbor's son-in-law who remains in harm's way. Bless his wife and children and all his loved ones while they wait his return. We call forth blessing and protection for his child aborning in the womb during his deployment. Let this entire extended family be surrounded in your love and our prayers.
~bent feather-Pvt. Gabriel Munoz US Army 10th Mountain Division
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Our non-Freeper Veteran 'wardaddy Scott' arrived at the Baghdad Int'l Airport
~Explorer89-My brother is now in Kuwait, waiting to be sent home!! He was just made a captain
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Over 100,000 Americans working for private firms are now providing security, food service, mail delivery, business and reconstruction help
~Bosco-my cousin, Michael. He's been deployed somewhere this past week. Also pray for his wife, Michelle and their infant (2 mos) daughter, Alexis. Alexis appears to have some sort of genetic liver problem and the doctors are not sure exactly what it is yet. Alexis goes in this coming monday (11/10) for more testing. Ask God to give the doctors wisdom to discern what the problem is with the baby. Ask the Lord to give Michelle strength and faith to deal with her husband's deployment and the baby's health issue.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-doug from upland's co-worker, Nick, to the prayer list? He's a civilian head of a company that makes a lifesaving film to cover glass and prevent it from exploding outward - currently working in Iraq for the CPA, traveling "RPG alley".
~Ragtime Cowgirl-From our 'friend' in Iraq tonight:
One of our guys got blown up in a convoy today. He'll live but that won't make news because he's just a contractor...
Would you please say a prayer for his wounded co-worker, and for our friend tonight ~ for healing, and strength, comfort and clarity - and for protection.
Our 'friend' in Iraq is now making regular convoy trips to Baghdad and back, where ambushes occur too frequently, and solo gringo's grandson is traveling to Germany and then finally home for Christmas for R & R.
~Texokie-Cathy Mitchell s husband,Tony, is an Air Force Commander in Afghanistan. He says "We need Christians to pray, pray, pray." Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.
~Anymarinmom-Armymarinmom prayer for her son who is going back to Iraq after an R&R.
~manna-Master Sgt. Kevin Morehead and his family
~Saundra Duffy-PFC Seth Grubb, 82nd Airborne, serving in Iraq. He's the soldier I picked to send a box a month to from the "Adopt-A-Unit" program.
~amom-fatima whos Karen is there and for some reason is feeling it more, it is hard and I pray with and for all of us united for our loved ones.
~armymarinemom-We recieved no bad news from Brad regarding his travel back into Iraq. Praise God!
I need to add both of his brothers to our daily list. Stuart is deployed in Afghanistan and the oldest of the three Graham has recieved orders for transfer to a unit that is going to Iraq next year.
This is a big pill for Grahams family to swallow and his wife needs prayers to come to grips that his husband is leaving her and their son for a while. This was sudden and a surprise for the family.
~bentfeather-PFC Gabriel Mumoz 10th Mountain Division, Watertown, NY.
~Ragtime Cowgirl- archy who shares his military wisdom generously ~ to the young (and not so young) ~ instructs recruits, works on ways to save the lives of our troops.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-The Stryker Brigade and their civilian helpers heading into Iraq
~justshutupandtakeit- my older son. He will be heading for boot camp at Great Lakes Naval Training Center on Monday after finishing his undergrad work in college. Arlen will be entering the Nuclear Engineering field in the Navy and will have specialized training down in Charleston, SC.
~ bentfeather-May we also remember PFC Gabriel Mumoz 10th Mountain Division, Watertown, NY.
~GatorGirl- Another friend, Tom,with the Army National Guard and is currently deployed to Afghanistan.
~RagtimeCowgirl- the beloved son of Freeper Debi, Sgt. Emerson Brand, serving with the 4th ID, in Samarra.
~Alamo-Girl- great-nephew Bill is scheduled to head off to Iraq. His cousin, Katey, is also on her way there and that her dad, Kenneth, is already there.
~RagtimeCowgirl-newlywed Cheney Chick as she travels to CA today for additional training before heading to the ME after New Years.
~ASHA-I have a son that returned safely from Iraq, but I continue to pray for the ones still there
~TruthNtegrity - lurker friend Pats nephew Ben (Marines) Kuwait and his mother Tracy.
Ben has been home since mid-October, back at Camp LeJeune. He has been told he might be shipped back in June 2004 - part of the sending in more ground troops.
~ TruthNtegrity- younger brother, John (Navy), has been deployed, and his family.
John has returned home and retired from the Navy in a marvelous ceremony in Dam Neck, VA on Oct. 3. Please pray for post-retirement employment.
~TruthNtegrity-Ensign Andy, US Navy - my cousin's son,
~mystery-ak and TruthNtegrity- for Sgt. Santos in Walter Reed hospital, recovering from wounds suffered when his Chinook was shot down by a SAM on Nov. 2. Also pray for complete healing so he passes his fitness quals. He wants to remain in the Army and return to Iraq.
~stand waite-MAJ Frank March,USAJAGC headed to Bagdadh on 01/02/04. I may be following him soon-they tell me my name is on the "recall list" of old retired/tired green machine guys from the army.
~TXnMA-#2 "Son" (beloved family friend 'adopted' into the family), Sergeant Christopher ~ an 82nd Airborne NCO currently serving in Iraq ~ "in harm's way (for the third time) and really can use all the prayers we can muster up -- as can his wife...and his son"---a little explanation for '#2 Son's' "in harm's way (for the third time)".
In Desert Storm, Sgt Chris met the Republican Guard (a Land Rover full of officers who decided not to surender) "up close and personal". He and his 82nd ABN unit pushed into Iraq nearly to An Nasiriyah.
After 9-11, he and "his" 82nd ABN "boys" spent a year "chasing the Tali & Al Q" around Afghanistan.
Now (after only four months back home with his family) he's in combat again -- in Iraq.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Sgt. Christopher's "adopted" brother (101st Airborne ~ retired after 20 years service) and sister (Captain in the Army Medical Service Corps), and parents (father AF Veteran)...still serving
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Extra prayers for the 82nd Airborne now in Iraq providing security for the troop rotation...chosen, again, because they are champions.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-xzins's son. Our Chaplain is 'giving up' his own warrior son who's heading to Iraq, after little notice to prepare friends and loved ones.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-tomakaze to the prayer list. He's a civilian contractor "shipping out" for Iraq tomorrow (1-30-2004)
Ragtime Cowgirl- Freeper Allegra, currently serving God, country and our troops as a volunteer civilian, in busy Balad, a favorite (and usually final) target of our enemies.
~amom- co-workers family- Samesha McNutt is currently stationed in Iraq. Kevin McNutt recently returned stateside after a long tour over in the ME. Both are U.S. Air Force lifers. Kevin has 26 years active so far.
~Calpernia-JustPiper
~Ragtime Cowgirl- A Freeper is asking for prayers for his brother's unit... protection for our 4ID troops ~ traveling from Tikrit to Kuwait and finally home after over a year of awesome work in Iraq...including prayer for brother, Tom.
~McGavin999-soldiers of the 3rd ACR who will be on the last convoy out of Iraq (sometime in the next couple of days). And could you please add a special prayer for Chris (He's one of my favorites and he's going to be on the last truck of the last convoy out of Iraq)
~heylady-17000 from the 1st Cavalry at Ft Hood in Texas are being deployed to Iraq. My son (Gregory) left on Wednesday. Please remember all of them in your prayers.
2 posted on
03/19/2004 12:56:27 PM PST by
TEXOKIE
(Hold fast what thou hast received!)
To: TEXOKIE
Amen,.......More Grace and Mercy,.....In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen!!!
(2nd Corinthians 5:1-13)
Maranatha!!
9 posted on
03/19/2004 2:16:09 PM PST by
maestro
To: TEXOKIE; xzins; Kathy in Alaska; MoJo2001; LindaSOG; LaDivaLoca; Fawnn; Bethbg79; bentfeather; ...
New Prayer Thread PING
To: TEXOKIE; All
As our and coalition troops maintain our Freedoms and protect us around the world,
Please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our troops. Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, prayer is the very best one.
"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen."
Asking Divine Protection for Those In Service
O God, I beseech You, watch over those exposed to the horror of war, and the spiritual dangers of a soldiers or sailors life.
Give them such a strong faith that no human respect may ever lead them to deny it, nor fear ever to practice it. By Your grace, O God, fortify them against the contagion of bad example, that being preserved from vice, and serving You faithfully, they may be ready to meet you face to face when they are so called: through Christ our Lord. Amen
Sacred Heart! Inspire them with sorrow for sin, and grant them pardon. Mother of God! Be with them on the battlefield during life and at the hour of death, and grant that they may live and die in the grace of thy Son. Amen. St. Joseph! Pray for them. May their Guardian Angel protect them. Amen.
Special Forces Prayer
Almighty God Who art the Author of Liberty and the Champion of the oppressed hear our prayer. We the men of Special Forces, acknowledge our dependence upon Thee in the preservation of human freedom.
Go with us as we seek to defend the defenseless and to free the enslaved. May we ever remember that our nation, whose oath "in God We Trust," expects that we shall requit ourselves with honor, that we may never bring shame upon our faith, our families, or our fellow men.
Grant us wisdom from Thy mind, courage from Thine heart, and protection by Thine hand. It is for Thee that we do battle, and to thee belongs the victor's crown. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power and glory forever. Amen!
The Marine Prayer
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family.
Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold.
If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Semper Fidelis
Prayers For Our Soldiers
Almighty God, we commend to your gracious care and keeping all the men and women of our armed forces at home and abroad. Defend them day by day with your heavenly grace; strengthen them in their trials and temptations; give them courage to face the perils which beset them; and grant them a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer for the US Navy
O eternal Lord, God, you alone spread out the heavens and rule the raging sea. Take into your most gracious protection our country's Navy and all who serve therein. Preserve them from the dangers of the sea and from the violence of the enemy, that they may be a safeguard unto the United States of America, and a security for such as sail upon the seas in peaceful and lawful missions. In serving you, O Lord, may our Sailors serve their country; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
A Soldiers Prayer
Lord Jesus, Mighty Warrior and Prince of Peace, all glory and power is yours. I offer myself and my military career for the welfare of our nation and for your glory.
You said "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord"; make us mindful of our nation's heritage and of who we are. You said "Be strong and of good courage", this is my prayer. You said "A king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength"; be my protection and my strength. While I defend the nation, may all of Heaven safeguard my family back home.
Almighty God, when you will to safely return me home, help me to see in each member of my family all that I am willing to fight for- life, liberty, freedom and justice. Give me wisdom to share what experiences would lead my sons to Christ-like valor, my daughters to Christian compassion. When Mary witnessed you falling wounded to the ground, she reaffirmed her trust in God her savior. Fill my spouse with surety in your divine plan for me, our family and our nation. You called me to be a soldier. March along side me. Jesus, I place my trust in you. Amen.
Air Force Hymn
Lord, guard and guide the ones who fly,
Through the great spaces of the sky;
Be with them traversing the air
In darkening storms or sunshine fair.
You who keep with tender might
The balanced birds in all their flight,
Lord of the tempered winds, be near,
That, having you, they know no fear.
Control their minds with instinct fit
Whene'er adventuring, they quit
Firm security of land;
Grant steadfast eye and skillful hand.
Aloft in solitudes of space,
Uphold them with your saving grace.
Oh, God, protect the ones who fly
Through lonely ways beneath the sky. Amen.
Coast Guard Prayer
Almighty and Everlasting God, Whose hand stills the tumult of the deep, we offer our prayers for those who serve in our Coast Guard. We are mindful of their traditions of selfless service to the seafarers who make their ways to appointed ports.
Employ their devotions of good ends as they track the weather and search for the seas for those in extremity of storm, shipwreck or battle. Make their soundings and markings sure that safe passages may be found by those who go down to the sea in ships.
Encourage them, O Lord, as they stand guard over our coasts and the bulwarks of our freedoms. Graciously deliver them from threatening calamities in all their perilous voyages. Bless the keepers of the lights and be Thou their close friend in lonely watches. Keep the beacons of honor and duty burning that they may reach the home port with duty well performed, in service to Thee and our land. AMEN.
Night Stalker Prayer
Father of the heavens and the night; Stretch forth Your almighty arms to strengthen and protect us. Even as You gave Saint Michael, Your angelic warrior, power to do spiritual battle in the heavens, so give us power to command the darkened skies.
Guide and direct us in the defense of our country and in the maintenance of justice among the nations. Give us the courage to face all obstacles that might keep us from our time on target. Send Your holy Angels to protect the precious cargo which we carry; the elite Special Operations forces of the United States. Sustain us in the hour of danger with the knowledge of Your mercy and return us safely home.
Watch over our families when we can not. May Your presence give them comfort, and Your love lend them the courage to face each day, confident in the knowledge that You will never leave them nor forsake them. Protect them with Your unfailing mercy and grace. Grant that wherever we serve, we may be loyal to our proud heritage. Make us to choose the harder right over the easier wrong, and never to be content with a half truth when the whole can be won. May we ever embody the principles upon which the Night Stalkers are founded and serve proudly with the memory of those who have gone before. Give us the courage to fight to win and the faith to die rather than quit. Because, Night Stalkers Don't Quit!
Prayer For Absent Family Members
O God, whose fatherly care reaches to the uttermost parts of the earth: We humbly beseech you graciously to behold and bless those whom we love, now absent from us. Defend them from all dangers of soul and body, and grant that both they and we, drawing nearer to you, may be bound together by your love in the communion of your Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
42 posted on
03/19/2004 11:03:33 PM PST by
SAMWolf
(I think animal testing is a terrible idea; they get all nervous and give the wrong answers.)
To: TEXOKIE
Prayers as always for our troops
It is with a sad heart that I ask prayers for a local family. We lost a great troop supporter this evening here. She literally passed away supporting our troops. This loving mother of 5 who have served our country with a son in-law currently in Iraq died on her way to greet troops returning home. I'm sorry to say that I was not there tonight but I did get word that once again our troops showed honor.
The chaplin on the flight had a small service for the troop greeter. God Bless him and our troops. The troops did get a welcome but they gave comfort to those who came to comfort.
124 posted on
04/01/2004 9:27:32 PM PST by
armymarinemom
(Bring Them Home Now.org--The Few, The Loud, The Latrine)
To: TEXOKIE
Prayers this Easter and each day for our brave soldiers.
259 posted on
04/11/2004 5:51:55 PM PDT by
Ramcat
(Thank You American Veterans)
To: TEXOKIE
Thanks for these threads. I don't think I have said so many prayers for so many people than I have in the past 3 years. I truly believe the Grace of God has protected many of our soldiers during their time of war, and comforted their families during their personal hardships.
Although I rarely respond, I always add my silent prayers.
Thank you again, TexOkie.
276 posted on
04/13/2004 6:27:12 AM PDT by
eyespysomething
(To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first, and call whatever you hit the target)
To: TEXOKIE
Dear holy Father God, I put my prayers with the others here. You said that where two are more are gathered in your name you are there in our midst. So, we thank you for being here and hearing our prayers. Thank you for the miracle of the Internet, and that there is no distance in the spirit world.
We lift up our coalition troops to you for protection and help. Lord, the bad people we are fighting hate your chosen people; they deny the lordship of Jesus, your Son; and they continually do evil against others. Please help us to have victory over these evil ones. Please help us to establish a measure of freedom in Iraq. Please give our leaders wisdom and knowledge; and expose and cut off the power of any wicked plans.
Please protect our troops and give them wisdom and knowledge to fight effectively and win. Please let the conflict end sooner than we even dare hope. Please raise up godly men in Iraq to lead their country in the right way. Please vindicate President Bush and his advisors. We give you all the glory, Lord, and we thank you in advance for your great mercy and help in this area.
To: TEXOKIE
I haven't read very much of this thread so please forgive me if this is out of line.
My nephew Bryan is with the 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment which has been extended. We are so proud of him and were so looking forward to his coming home. Bryan is OK with the extension; he's not complaining at all. In fact he talks about possibly making the Army a career. This is a kid who hasn't even been out of high school 2 full years(graduated June 02).
His mother (my twin sister) is really upset in spite of Bryan trying to tell her he's cool with everything.
Today I gave money to a vet giving out poppies and collecting for disabled vets. I was about to tell him about Bryan (just because I'm such a proud aunt and love to brag about him) and I realized I was going to cry. I just gave the old man a bunch of 1's and never said a word. This isn't like me. I'm a former Army sergeant myself (hey, Bryan had to get "it" somewhere).
My 81 year old mother is the world's staunchest republican but I can tell even she is starting to question the Iraq situation though not in so many words. Again it's the extension that is getting to her.
She lost her first husband in Korea in '52 and last year my brother(Vietnam vet) was killed in a motorcycle accident on his father's birthday. My mother's first husband was his father.
On top of that my brother's widow and my other sister and her family are totally anti Bush.
All of this is really piling up on us.
I guess I'm typing all this just to get it out of my system. Please pray for Bryan and our family.
529 posted on
05/05/2004 5:10:03 PM PDT by
NEPA
To: TEXOKIE
In prayerful thought today for all of our troops, Veterans their family members. May God comfort them as they await the end of this conflict.
552 posted on
05/11/2004 7:13:56 AM PDT by
Diva Betsy Ross
(Every heart beats true for the red,white and blue)
To: TEXOKIE
Praise the Lord.
Pass the Ammunition.
Old Glory
flying proud and wild and free.
Because brave USA Troops hear
hear the powerful scream
of the American Eagle
and hear the thunder of our courageous loving hearts
see the firey burning beacon of
Lady Liberty's glowing Torch of FReedom
and know that we say Godspeed
We will not forget.
We will not let you down.
We will share your pain.
We will share your joys.
We stand with you.
Red, White and Blue.
We are thankful beyond measure
for your valient sacrifice.
So sons and daughters, give 'em hell!![](http://www.americantradition.com/images/flag_eagle.jpg)
578 posted on
05/12/2004 8:24:05 PM PDT by
harpo11
(Give 'em Hell Team Bush! What's it gonna be? Kowtow Kerry or Bodacious Bush?)
To: TEXOKIE; devolve; MeekOneGOP; potlatch; Happy2BMe
A Soldier's Prayer
God our Father,
Help me to remain true to my ideals
during my service to my country.
Help me be what is in America,
the land of the free.
May I realize that I represent
what our country stands for.
My uniform is a symbol of duty and valor
both in peace and in war.
I take up arms to defend what all Americans hold dear:
life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Grant me the strength to live according to these ideals
, the courage of my convictions, and the resolve to endure
whatever dangers threaten.
With you at our side I fear no evil
and resist every enemy,
secure in the knowledge
that you hold me in the palm of your hand.
Amen.
No harm will befall you, no disaster will
come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways.
Psalm 91:10 - 11
627 posted on
06/05/2004 8:22:57 PM PDT by
Smartass
( BUSH & CHENEY IN 2004 - Si vis pacem, para bellum - Por el dedo de Dios se escribió.)
To: TEXOKIE; All
A few weeks ago I asked for prayers for my nephew Bryan and my family. His extension was really getting to us. He has been in Iraq for about 14 months.
His mother got an email yesterday. He'll be home by late July.
I want to thank everyone for your prayers.
644 posted on
06/20/2004 5:22:02 AM PDT by
NEPA
To: TEXOKIE
Dear Heavenly Father,
in the Name of the LORD JESUS,
protect and strengthen our President and our brave soldiers.
we are thankful for them and for Your mercy and the gift of
Your Spirit.
Amen
To: TEXOKIE
Most Merciful and All-Powerful FATHER, we humbly ask for YOUR divine grace and protection for our President, leaders, and the brave troops who fight for freedom. May YOUR blessings be wisdom, strength, and peace for their safe return to their families.
In the Name of the LORD JESUS we praise and thank YOU. amen
To: TEXOKIE
special note
If you know any of our troops that are serving and you think they may enjoy FREE religious books from Charles Stanley. Just freepmail me there full military address and I will see to it they are sent. I have permission to pass this around and so do you.
InTouch had put together some material just for the troops away from home. Website link...
http://www.intouch.org/
858 posted on
10/10/2004 1:51:17 PM PDT by
DAVEY CROCKETT
(Character exalts Liberty and Freedom, Righteous exalts a Nation.)
To: TEXOKIE; All
On Veteran's Day, I'd like to share today's Breakpoint commentary by Chuck Colson:
No Greater Glory: Four Immortal Chaplains
The troop ship glided across the icy waters of the North Atlantic , headed for Greenland. On board, nine hundred soldiers enjoyed an amateur night program organized by the ships four chaplains.
But in the darkness, a deadly enemy followed them: a German U-boat. It was February 3, 1943 . The ship was the Dorchester, and her four chaplains would soon unite in a famous act of heroism.
The oldest chaplain was George Fox, a Methodist minister who insisted on serving despite lingering wounds from the First World War. Rabbi Alex Goode, at age 31, was the youngest chaplain, a brilliant scholar who dreamed of universal brotherhood. Chaplain Clark Poling was the son of a famous radio evangelist. As he left home, Poling said, Pray, Dad, that I shall never be a coward. Poling then kissed his pregnant wife and young son goodbye.
Finally there was Father John Washington who grew up in a poor Irish family. A childhood brush with death had led him to give his life to serve as a priest in the church.
The four, who had become friends during chaplain training, were delighted to meet up on the Dorchester. All four were loved by the men for their spiritual strength and sense of humor.
At 12:55 a.m. , a torpedo ripped a huge hole in the Dorchesters starboard side. As Dan Kurzman writes in his book No Greater Glory, The four chaplains leaped from their bunks determined to save as many men as possible . . . Perhaps this is what God had primed them for. They were finally in the battlefield, and their souls would be severely tested.
The four persuaded frightened men to climb down a rope to a lifeboat. One terrified soldier shouted, I cant find my life jacket! Chaplain Fox replied, Heres one, soldier, and handed him his own. When Chaplain Goode realized a sailor had forgotten his gloves, he pulled off his and handed them over. The sailorwho spent the next eight hours trying to keep from being swept out of a lifeboatlater said, I owe my life to those gloves.
The chaplains continued to minister to the men in the moments before they died. Pfc. William Bednar, floating among dead comrades, heard the chaplains preaching courage as the ship went down. Their voices, he said, were the only thing that kept me going.
As the ship sank, the chaplains linked arms and prayed in English, Hebrew, and Latin.
Those who survived the sinking never forgot the four chaplains, and todayVeterans Daywe ought to make sure our children know the story of the four heroic men who loved each other like brothers and formed an ecumenism of the trenches. We should remember their example as we face our own battlescultural battles that we will win only if we are willing to put aside our theological differences and join forces. We should remember them as we pray, especially this Veterans Day, for our troops on the ground and in combat right now in Iraq and for the chaplains who serve them.
Most of all, whenever we find ourselves thinking we have sacrificed enough in our all-too-comfortable lives, we ought to remember the four chaplains whose heroism reminds us that greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.
975 posted on
11/11/2004 1:12:46 PM PST by
Mr. Silverback
(I used to work in an orange juice factory, but I got canned: I couldn't concentrate.)
To: TEXOKIE; MEG33
MEG33 showed me the way to this wonderful thread when I posted this message elsewhere here on FR tonight. Thank you all in advance:
While I am online with you all today and knowing the power of prayer we can muster on these forums I'd like to ask for prayers of safe keeping for my 18 year old great niece who landed in Bahgdad 3 weeks ago.
Her name is Jessica and she went into the army right out of high school. She actually got a sharp shooter medal while in training. She might need it as she is a convoy driver just like the girl's and guys who got ambushed, killed and kidnapped.
She was very anxious to go and serve her country, her mother is my closest niece and I can't imagine how she is coping. But she is very proud of Jess, as am I, except I am very worried everyday. As are all of us, I'm sure.
I wish we could surround her and all the rest of the service men and women with a cloak of prayer protection.
Here's Jessica's picture the day she shipped out for Iraq:
Jessica
985 posted on
11/12/2004 7:36:47 PM PST by
hergus
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