The 53rd Blessing of the Fleet in Manhasset Bay on June 15 combined traditional intercessions for our boating community with a remembrance of all we lost to the terrorists last September. This year we also specially and proudly saluted the veterans of our Armed Forces and those now serving us.

The theme of the ceremony was expressed in the following prayer which was written for the 50th Anniversary of World War II by Rabbi Martin S. Rozenberg, then at the Community Synagogue. Its message is still pertinent today.

Almighty God who watches over His children on land and sea, we thank you for the gift of memory whereby during this half-century year of anniversary of the end of World War II we call to mind the men and women of our Armed Forces and Merchant Marine who made sacrifices in life and limb for the cause of freedom and peace. May we never forget the debt of gratitude we owe them and may their noble example continue to inspire us.

And even as we remember a time of war in the past so do we today ask your blessings on this fleet that will cruise these waters. May its occupants who will closely confront the forces of nature grow in humility and be roused to the awareness that you, O God, rule over the depths of the sea even as you reach beyond the heights of the heavens. May those who set out in peace return in peace.

Another special prayer was delivered by Tom Tobin, chaplain for the Port Washington Fire Department at this year's blessing. His words also show the reverence we all have for the heroes of Sept. 11.

My dear friends and neighbors. Traditionally we gather on this day to pray as a community for God's blessing on those who will utilize the surrounding waters of Manhasset Bay, Long Island Sound, and Hempstead Harbor for fun and enjoyment. Today, however, I ask your indulgence as I offer my prayer for God's blessing on those brave men and women who daily use the gift of water to protect life and property from the horrors of fire. Especially, I ask that you join with me in praying for the wives and families of my 343 brother firefighters who unselfishly gave their lives attempting to save the occupants of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, and the prayer I will present is known to the members of the fire service as "A Firemen's Prayer."

When I am called to duty, God

Wherever flames may rage,

Give me strength to save some life

Whatever be its age.

Help me embrace a little child

Before it is too late

Or save an older person from

The horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert

To the weakest shout

And quickly and efficiently

To put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling card

To give the best in me.

To Guard my every neighbor and

Protect his property.

And if according to my fate

I am to lose my life

Please bless with your protecting hand

My family and my wife.