A Soldier's Prayer

Memorial Day is a reminder to thank all of the brave men and women who have helped shape our country's history by bravely serving in the Armed Forces. I hold this holiday especially dear because so many men in my family have served and so many dear friends. Today I would like to share with you about the men pictured below.

The first man is my Daddy. He served in the Air Force in the Philippines. He has used the discipline and strength and meticulous attention to detail throughout his life since then. I am so very thankful that God allowed my father to come home safely and has taken care of him since then.

The second man is my Papaw Fred. He served in occupied Japan directly after the atom bomb was dropped. I only remember a little about him, but I know he was kind and generous and he loved everyone. He passed away in April of 1984 due to lung cancer. The doctors said that his over exposure to the radiation was part of what caused the cancer.

The last man pictured is my Papaw Stoots. Papaw served in the Infantry. He was deployed to Normandy beach in the battalion sent 3 days after D-Day invasion. He fought in 13 major European battles. With the Great Depression going on when he returned home, even his uniforms were cut apart to make blankets. He was proud of serving, but he did not talk about the War, I think he had seen too much. He passed away April 25th, 2005. I had never been to a military funeral.

On the day we buried my Papaw, it was overcast and somber. The pastor delivered a small message, as did the Captain of the Guard. The Military escorts and guards stood at attention as Taps echoed through the cemetary. My Papaw was honored with a 21 gun salute, at which moment the clouds parted and sunlight shone on that little patch of lawn where we were gathered. As they folded the flag so carefully I saw tears in the eyes of several, as they had lost another comrade soon to have none left from that War. As they gave the flag to my Mamaw, she stood there with solemnity and grace as her only defense to the flood of emotions still seen in her eyes. The shell casings were collected, and as we were leaving, it started to rain. Light and slow like tears of angels welcoming home one of their own.

For the honor and respect and gratitude due to each soul of every soldier who has protected our great nation with their life, Thank You!


A Soldier's Prayer as recorded by Collin Raye

I know you're tired,
I know you're worn, I know you're torn
You're losing all your hope
'Cause you're a long way from home
Oh, I know you're worried
I know you're scared.
I'd like to put my arms around you
And tell you I care.


Hope is in Heaven, not far away
Just close your eyes, he hears what you say.
Feel him around you, He's everywhere
Reachin' to touch you, Know that he is there.
Deep in the heart of a war,
He hears a Soldier's Prayer.


Ask and he'll protect you, guide where you go.
Keep you from evil that tears at your soul
Oh,speak to the Father,say what's on your mind
It just takes a moment,if you'll take the time


Hope is in Heaven, not far away
Just close your eyes, he hears what you say.
Feel him around you, He's everywhere
Reachin' to touch you, Know that he's there.
Deep in the heart of a war,
He hears a Soldier's Prayer.



Let's pray for hope,Let's pray for peace
I pray for you and you pray for me
I'll pray for heaven to hear what you say
All of God's children will find out one day
Deep in the heart of a war
God heard a Soldier's Prayer.

In Grace,