by khurst2@gmail.com | Feb 1, 2024 | News, Presidents Msg
This National Black History Month, we celebrate the vast contributions of Black Americans to our country and recognize that Black history is American history and that Black culture, stories, and triumphs are at the core of who we are as a Nation.
The soul of America is what makes us unique among all nations. We are the only country in the world founded on an idea. It is the idea that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated with equal dignity throughout our lives. While we still grapple today with the moral stain and vestiges of slavery — our country’s original sin — we have never walked away from the fight to fully realize the promise of America for all Americans. Throughout our history, Black Americans have never given up on the promise of America. Unbowed by the forces of hate and undaunted as they fought for centuries against slavery, segregation, and injustice, Black Americans have held a mirror up to our Nation, allowing our country to confront hard truths about who we are and pushing us to live up to our founding ideals. They have helped redeem the soul of our Nation, ensuring the promises in our founding documents were not just words on a page but a lived reality for all people. In the process, the vibrancy of Black history and culture has enriched every aspect of American life.
by khurst2@gmail.com | Jan 7, 2024 | Memoriam, News
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Alma Bernice Clark Gravely, devoted wife of the late Retired Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely Jr.
Born on December 11, 1921, Alma led a life of ultimate grace and unwavering support alongside her husband, Admiral Gravely, the first African American Admiral in the United States Navy. Together, they raised three children, Robert, David, and Tracey, instilling in them the values of service, resilience, and love.
Alma’s kindness, sharp wit and tremendous strength touched countless lives. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, steadfast dedication to family, and commitment to her community. Alma was an iconic Navy Wife.
Alma Bernice Clark Gravely leaves a legacy of love, service, and strength.
A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Olive Branch Baptist Church, 4203 Mountain Rd., Haymarket, VA, 20169. Viewing will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Native American Veterans Association (NAVA.ORG), which was close to Alma’s heart.
We will forever cherish her memory and the light she brought to our lives.
by khurst2@gmail.com | Dec 10, 2023 | Chaplain, News
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”
On my last night as a hospital chaplain in seminary, I received a call around 3:00 am. It had already been a hectic night. It seemed like the pager would not stop going off. The nurse told me that they had a baby in the pediatric intensive care unit on life support because of brain swelling from a car accident. His mother had been driving and had been hit by a drunk driver. Her mother was killed instantly, and now her son was on life-support.
I got myself together and walked over to the pediatric ICU to talk with the nurses and see the little man. I had never seen a baby’s head swollen and banged up like that in my life. While I was standing next to his bed, I noticed his name was Immanuel. The nurses informed me that Immanuel was going to die. I prayed with little Immanuel and then visited with his mother.
When I walked into the waiting room, I immediately observed that she had a lot of support with her. There were friends and family members all sitting with her and comforting her. At hospitals, people tend to get scared when a chaplain enters the room because they either know or assume the chaplain brings or precedes terrible news. Unfortunately, this was one of those times. I informed everyone who I was and let her know I was there to support her in any way I could.
I sat and listened as the mother explained what happened that night and how she was upset because she watched her mother die because of someone else’s fault. She then began talking about her fears for her son’s life and how she did not know what she would do if she lost him and her mother. And then she said something I will never forget. She said, “I named my son Immanuel, which means ‘God with us,’ so I know God is with me right now.” It was painful to hear her say that, knowing what I knew yet, I could not tell her. Her son was going to die. I remained with her for the rest of the morning until she fell asleep. I left my contact information with her friends in case she needed me later.
As I returned to my room, her words echoed, “I named my son Immanuel, which means ‘God with us,’ so I know God is with me right now.” I began to wonder what “God with us means.” Had God failed her in the death of her mother and son caused by the actions of an irresponsible individual? Where is God in all of this?
God was there long before I arrived. God was there when the accident took place. God was there in the nurses and doctors, tending to her and her son. God was there in the friends and family, comforting her. God was there even in me coming there to comfort her in her time of need. And God is still there with her even now. God is always there. We may not always understand how God works, but we can rest assured God is with us, Immanuel.
by khurst2@gmail.com | Nov 10, 2023 | News, Presidents Msg
This Veterans Day, we honor all who have solemnly sworn to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice!
On every day after, let us continue to strive towards a more perfect union as we fulfill the promises of the American Dream. May God continue to bless America!
Cedric E. Pringle
RDML USN (Retired)
by khurst2@gmail.com | Nov 9, 2023 | News
Founded in a Philadelphia Tavern on 10 November 1775, the United States Marine Corps has forged a legendary legacy, while answering our nation’s call, for the past 248 years. From muzzle loaders, Browning Automatic Rifles (BAR), the F-35 Lightning and down to the deadliest weapon in the Marine Corps arsenal—the individual Marine, Marines have struck fear into the hearts and minds of our nation’s enemies. As we celebrate this 248th anniversary of the nation’s foremost warrior class—The United States Marine Corps, let us reflect on the words of The Commandant and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps.
“Marines, you are the strength of our Corps, and your actions determine the fate of millions of future warriors and their ability to stand on your shoulders. I know that you are ready. Take pride in what you represent, you are the pinnacle of professional warriors and the model for others to follow. SMMC Ruiz and I are proud to stand among you and we’ll be with you every step of the way.”
~ 39th Commandant, General Eric Smith.
“As we come together to celebrate our 248th Birthday, I encourage every Marine to reflect on our history, and think about the moment when you asked yourself, do I have what it takes? You are on a journey that few have dared to do.”
~20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, SgtMaj Carlos Ruiz
The National Naval Officers Association wishes all you Leathernecks Jarheads Devildogs Soldiers of the Sea Marines, and your families a Happy 248th Birthday!
