Perhaps because three generations in our family went to sea with the U.S. Navy - aviators all, this hymn has always resonated with me. Though I've been accused of being stoic on occasion, and no fan of war, the memory of my lost heroes always brings a tear when this one is sung or played.


"Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep,
Its own appointed limits keep.

Oh hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea! Amen."