By CH (COL) Janet Y. Horton
Almighty God, in a gentle presence, Look upon us today,
Help our nation look upon us in a grateful way,
Celebrating “those who also served” before,
Leaving only an unsung score,
For before us served a blessed few,
Who served without the recognition due,
But did not, nor now do… the duty done for glory… but for You!
For the common Good we serve to heal and renew
the fighting Strength, for our beloved Red, White and Blue.
We did it because we dare to do a duty needing done,
Regardless of the sacrifice required– the battle must be won!
We do and did a work inspired,
Because it was required;
Not in a quest for earthly regards,
But for the healing, support and care
of fellow soldiers dying there,
or needing our efforts, side by side,
to fight for freedom far and wide,
that any injustice may not abide.
Knowing only the recognition divine
Was for a selfless unseen goal;
May this celebration make a nation whole,
Whoa re yet unsure just what’s our role.
We simply serve for the task at hand,
A quiet, sincere and hallowed band;
NOT FOR THE RECOGNITION then nor now.
We seek our enduring obligation
To the Good, the Right — a station,
That advances our nation,
Toward freedom’s goal and a purer vision;
That they might value women there,
A more just record and fair.
What further indication do we need,
That women work and fight and lead,
BUT NOT FOR THE RECOGNITION!
Our prayer; For women living and deceased,
We ask Your blessing, grace and peace,
Amen.
Presented as the Invocation at the Army Luncheon, 17 Oct 97, in conjunction with the dedication of The Women in Military Service for America Memorial
