Aviano holds National Prayer Luncheon

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Mercedes Crossland
  • 31st Fighter Wing public affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The 31st Fighter Wing hosted the annual National Prayer Luncheon in the Mass Briefing Facility here Feb. 4, 2010.

This year's guest speaker was Chaplain (Brig. Gen.) David H. Cyr, Air Force deputy chief of chaplains. He delivered a message titled "God, Bless America", and talked about the many years he served along the men and women of the military.

"I have been doing this for 31 years... and if an angel came to me today and was willing to grant me only one wish, I'd ask for 31 more to stand by you," said Chaplain Cyr.

The event included speeches, prayers, and singing of "God Bless America" and the Air Force Hymn.

Traditionally, during the month of February, prayer breakfasts and luncheons are hosted throughout the United States and overseas on U.S. military installations.

Dating back to 1942, when prayer groups from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives met weekly, this event is meant to bring the nation together. Since the start of the tradition, groups continue to meet and pray over issues facing the nation. The first Presidential breakfast was established in 1953 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

For more information about the Air Force Chaplain Corps, visit http://www.usafhc.af.mil/