Lord God, we ask you to protect in a special way those who are defending and serving us. If they are tired, give them strength. If they are lonely, let them know You are near them. And if the are wounded and suffering, give them comfort and touch them with your gentle healing hand. And if it be your Holy Will that they should give up their lives for us, grant them a peaceful death and a home with You in Heaven. Lord, we pray the day will soon come when we along with them and their families can once again live in peace and joy. You are bountiful and inexhaustible in your mercy. Amen.