O Lord God Almighty,

We gather on these Capitol steps today where so many noble Americans and Idahoans have gathered in times passed.  This place is a symbol of the free and democratic society in which we live.   We have always striven to become a nation where every one is loved and respected; a nation where self-sacrifice and devotion to duty is honored and deeply appreciated.  We are especially thankful for all the brave men and women who wear our nations uniform and even in the hour bear the burden of the battle.  We do pray that your grace and divine protection would be upon their lives.

We do confess to you, O Lord, that we have not always lived up to our own standards of love and appreciation for those who have placed their lives in harms way on our behalf.  We have before us today a group of Marines who were young once and who did not flinch in the face of battle.  But when they came home we did not welcome them with the dignity and honor they so richly deserved.  Would you forgive us of that tress pass as we ask them to forgive us as well. 

May we learn afresh from this experience that freedom is not free.  In every generation there must be those who are willing to sacrifice on our behalf.  Would you in your own providence continue to provide for us brave citizens such as these.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen