JBSA-FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas –
U.S. Army South Soldiers, civilians and family members gathered for a prayer luncheon at the Fort Sam Houston Golf Club July 20.
The command hosts a prayer luncheon each quarter, giving Army South family members of different faiths a chance to join together to gain strength from one another and experience the power of collective prayer.
Army South family members shared in laughs and conversation as Fort Sam Houston’s 323rd Army Band played in the background prior to the start of the luncheon.
“It gives me inspiration and encouragement; it’s an opportunity to talk with leaders you otherwise would not get to meet,” said Tammi Ward, ARSOUTH G-8 budget analyst.
Luncheon attendees were welcomed by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Roy Walker and Maj. Gen. K.K. Chinn, U.S. Army South commander, who encouraged attendees to take this opportunity to “focus on family, friends and fellowship.”
After prayers for the nation and leaders and a scripture reading, Chaplain (Maj.) John Sedwick introduced guest speaker retired Army Maj. Gen. Floyd W. Baker. Baker, who retired from active duty in 1986, focused his message on deliverance and shared stories from his life, ranging from 1943 to 1990, in which he believed he was delivered from harm’s way.
The accounts found Baker in a variety of precarious situations including narrowly avoiding a broken wrist after being kicked by a horse while working a farm in Kansas and being rescued after falling out of a canoe while negotiating a chilly Alaskan river.
“Am I saved because of my faith or do I have faith because I am saved? Maybe a little of both,” Baker said.
Baker and his wife actively participate in activities at the Fort Sam Houston chapel and have been doing so for the past 35 years. Every week he has a cup of water and a marked up hymn book ready for the preacher at each service, in addition to fresh donuts for the parishioners. At the age of 89, Baker continues to be an example of selfless service even in his retirement years.