The US Navy celebrated its birthday at its service academy in Annapolis with a worship service in the US Naval Academy chapel:

The worship service reflected several religious traditions from those participating in the service and included remarks from Vice Adm. Walter E. Carter, Jr., Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, and Chief of Navy Chaplains Rear Adm. Margaret Grun Kibben. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Michael Stevens also attended and participated in the scripture reading.

Chaplain Kibben called for courage: 

“If we who believe boldly proclaim God’s power in our past…then we must boldly affirm God’s power in our present and over the very present dangers our Sailors and our families face,” she added.

The Navy has one of the longest and richest histories of the military services, and perhaps more than the other services finds spirituality entwined in its traditions and service — from the blessing of the fleet, to the church pennant, to even the simple “christening” of a ship, faith and belief are found throughout Navy tradition. While some secularists have taken issue with the Navy for these very reasons, it is encouraging to see the Navy stand tall and celebrate its heritage.

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