MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga. -- More than 200 people from the local community gathered to pray for service members and local tornado victims during a vigil at the Veterans Park Amphitheater here April 3.
The ceremony began with the Base Color Guard presenting the national colors during a rendition of the national anthem sung by Stan Halstead of Byne Memorial Baptist Church.
The command chaplain, Lt. Cmdr. Roger C. Richards, spoke at the religious event.
The chaplain's observations during his travel experiences have taught him "we absolutely live in greatest nation on earth."
"It is great because of what we are," Richards explained. "It is always comforting to see Americans come together in support of each other during difficult times whether it is battling terrorism or battling against the elements. We come together to support each other. This is what will keep America great."
Albany Mayor Tommy Coleman proclaimed April 3, 2003, as Prayer Vigil Day. He urged all citizens to stop and offer prayers to support the service members who defend the nation's freedom and the tornado victims of Worth and Mitchell counties.
"Through this time of war, we realize more than ever how dependent we are upon them (service members)," said Coleman.