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Maj. Gen. Glenn M. Walters, commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks about faith during a National Day of Prayer breakfast May 2. Walters was the guest speaker at the event.

Photo by Pfc. Victor A. Arriaga

Service members observe National Day of Prayer

9 May 2013 | Pfc. Victor A. Arriaga Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

Marines, Sailors and military retirees observed the National Day of Prayer by holding a breakfast and service May 2 in the air station mess hall.

Every year, the president, by proclamation, declares the first Thursday of May to be the National Day of Prayer. People across the country get together and pray for our country, people and our leaders.

The breakfast started off with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band playing “America the Beautiful,” while those in attendance sang along. Malmstrom then gave a welcome message and led the group in a prayer.

“Prayer is a central part of our faith, life and traditions,” said Malmstrom. “When I was in Iraq in 2005, I saw the tremendous impact that faith had on the Marines and Sailors. It helped them focus on the job at hand and gave them courage and strength.”

Maj. Gen. Glenn M. Walters, commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, was the guest speaker at the observance.

 “Prayer is in play every day right now,” said Walters. “We have examples every day on this flight line, and we can see it right now in Boston.”

Others in attendance included retired Staff Sgt. Nick Belardo, a deacon at his local church who came out to share fellowship with comrades old and new.

“It’s great being among Marines and Sailors again,” said Belardo. “It makes me feel like I am home and a part of this great nation’s military again.”

 The breakfast concluded with a prayer for military and families by Navy Lt. Deann C. Coleman, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron chaplain.

“It’s important for us to remember that, although we may be few in number here, there are people gathered across the country doing the very same thing,” said Malmstrom. “Not just here in Cherry Point, but all around the country to do this National Day of Prayer.”


Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point