Chaplains, religious program specialists and chaplains' assistants from the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) and the 326th Area Support Group organized the breakfast and allotted times throughout the day for service members to partake in specific prayers for family, government, military and the people of Iraq, among others.

Prior to the meal, those in attendance enjoyed musical selections from the 2nd MAW Band and a praise team. Army Sgt. Daniel Estinfort's saxophone soothed the crowd with hymns as they ate.

After the meal, Lt. Cmdr. Terry Eddinger, Marine Aircraft Group 26 chaplain, lead the gathering in prayer for our nations leaders.

Following the prayer and a brief introduction, the wing commanding general gave an inspiring speech.

The guest of honor at the prayer breakfast, Brig. Gen. Robert E. Milstead Jr., commanding general of the 2nd MAW (Fwd), quoted from "America the Beautiful" and spoke of the importance of prayer and God's grace.

"We are not only blessed as individuals, but as a nation," Milstead said. "Our country is truly blessed with freedom and prosperity unparalleled across the nations."

"We join together this morning, people of different faiths, but serving one God," Milstead punctuated. "As servicemen and women we are called to not only stand for our nation but our faith."

Milstead said the theme of this year's National Day of Prayer, 'God Shed His Grace on Thee,' highlights the importance of God's grace in our daily lives.

During a difficult time for the people of Iraq and America, Milstead said the importance of prayer and faith should not be overlooked.

"From the earliest days of our founding, we have been a nation under God," he said. "Today we ask God to shed His grace on us and the people of Iraq, and just as He promised, we will receive it."

Milstead's words echoed those of President Abraham Lincoln, who said, "it is the duty of nations as well as men, to owe their dependence upon the overruling power of God."

After Milstead's speech, and prayers for military personnel and family, Capt. Christian Pappas concluded the ceremony by playing Amazing Grace on the bagpipes.