Soon, Christmas will be here, but some American service men and women will not.

Tuesday, December 14, 1999

Soon, Christmas will be here, but some American service men and women will not. Here’s a reminder to remember those in the Armed Forces this holiday season:

‘Twas the night before Christmas. He lived all alone,

In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.

I had come down the chimney with presents to give,

And to see just who in this home did live.

I looked all about, a strange sight did I see,

No tinsel, no presents. Not even a tree.

No stocking by mantle. just boots filled with sand.

On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.

With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,

A sober thought came through my mind.

For this house was different. It was dark and dreary.

I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.

The soldier lay sleeping. Silent, alone.

Cured up on the floor in this one bedroom home.

The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder.

Not how I pictured a United States soldier.

Was this the hero of whom I’d just read?

Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed.

I realized the families that I saw this night,

Owed their lives to these soldiers, who were filling to fight.

Soon ’round the world, the children would play,

And grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day.

They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,

Because of the soldiers, like the one lying here.

I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone,

On a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.

The very though brought a tear to my eye.

I dropped to my knees and started to cry.

The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice.

"Santa, Don’t cry. This life is my choice.

"I fight for freedom. I don’t ask for more.

"My life is my God’s, my country, my corps."

The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep.

I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.

I kept watch for hours, so silent and still

And we both shivered from the cold night’s chill."

I didn’t want to leave on that cold, dark night.

This guardian of honor so willing to fight.

Then, the soldier rolled over with a voice soft and pure,

Whispered "Carry on, Santa. It’s Christmas Day. All is secure."

One look at my watch and I knew he was right.

"Merry Christmas, my friend, and to all a good night!"

Don’t forget those in the U.S. Armed Forces this Christmas.