One Son on His Way to Lebanon

well, to the waters off of Lebanon... the Navy son... Highly unlikely that J will have to go ashore for any reason, but still a little disconcerting to have him anywhere near that volatile region. Apparently, the trip had been rumored for weeks... they received orders Tuesday... put to sea yesterday. Four days to get ready for a deployment that could be from 3-9 months... In typical style, when we asked when he'd be home, our son said, "When the job's done." We hope sooner than later.

Safe journey, son. Home soon. We'll watch after all "your girls" (that would be wife and daughters.)

Here's the story from the Hampton Roads paper... you might need to register to read it, but it's free

And here's the story with access to a few videos... from WAVY-TV (via WAVY.com)

The Navy Newstand and Stars & Stripes

The Navy Hymn (listen here)

Eternal Father, Strong to save,

Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,

Who bid'st the mighty Ocean deep

Its own appointed limits keep;

O hear us when we cry to thee,

for those in peril on the sea.

O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard

And hushed their raging at Thy word,

Who walked'st on the foaming deep,

and calm amidst its rage didst sleep;

Oh hear us when we cry to Thee

For those in peril on the sea!

Most Holy spirit! Who didst brood

Upon the chaos dark and rude,

And bid its angry tumult cease,

And give, for wild confusion, peace;

Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee

For those in peril on the sea!

O Trinity of love and power!

Our brethren shield in danger's hour;

From rock and tempest, fire and foe,

Protect them wheresoe'er they go;

Thus evermore shall rise to Thee,

Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.