Almighty God, Lord of hosts and Giver of all victory, we lift up those who stand watch for and defend this nation.
Bless the Army on the ground, the Navy upon the deep, the Marines always faithful, the Air Force in the high places, the Space Force above us all, and the Reserves and Guard who answer from ordinary streets and leave ordinary lives behind. Be their fortress and their high tower.
Guard them in the hour of danger. Steady the young soldier far from home for the first time. Keep the sailor through the long night watch. Cover the airman and the guardian in domains we cannot see. Where there is fear, grant courage; where there is weariness, grant rest; where there is temptation, grant a clean heart.
Lord, be near to those who carry wounds no bandage reaches. Meet the ones who sit alone with memory and guilt, and whisper to any who have lost the will to live that they are known, wanted, and loved. Hold the families who wait, the children counting days, the spouse carrying the whole weight of home. Comfort every Gold Star family with a mercy deeper than their grief.
Give wisdom to commanders and to those in authority, that they would be slow to spend life and quick to seek peace. Strengthen the chaplains who serve in tents and ships and hangars, and let their words land where they are needed most.
We thank You for every volunteer who still raises a hand and swears an oath. Thank You for comradeship that lays down its life for a friend, and for the long heritage of prayer in the ranks, from Valley Forge to this day.
Bring them home. Keep them faithful. And make us a people worthy of their sacrifice. In the name of Christ our Redeemer, amen.
Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle; he is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and he in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples[a] under me. Psalm 144:1-2 ESV
“Semper Fidelis” (Always Faithful) — Marine Corps Motto (1883) Colonel Charles G. McCawley 8th Commandant of the Marine Corps
Hold Fast, Spread the Word and God Save the Republic.
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