On the Sea…On the Land…In the Air

eternal father strong to saveOn the 11th day of this 11th month, our nation will pause to remember and honor all those who have served this country. Recognizing this as Veterans Day, our nation owes a debt of gratitude to all those who have served and are currently serving in the armed forces. From the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard, we offer our tribute of thanks for protecting and defending these United States of America.

For years this ‘hymn’ has been known as the Naval Hymn, but for a moment consider the following verses and how they reflect a prayer for three of the services. We are thankful for all those who have served on the sea, on the land and in the air…

“Eternal Father, strong to save, whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid’st the mighty ocean deep its own appointed limits keep:
O hear us when we cry to Thee for those in peril on the sea.

O Christ, the Lord of hill and plain o’er which our traffic runs a’main
By mountain pass or valley low; wherever, Lord, our brethren go,
Protect them by Thy guarding hand from every peril on the Land.

O Spirit whom the Father sent to spread abroad the firmament;
O wind of heaven, by Thy might save all who dare the eagle’s flight,
And keep them by Thy watchful care from every peril in the air.

O Trinity of love and power, our brethren shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe, Protect them, wheresoe’er they go.
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee glad praise from air and land and sea.”