This Page is Dedicated with Gratitude to All of the Men, Women and Veterans of our Country’s Armed Forces.

‘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 little house lived.

As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see, no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.

No Stockings by the mantle, just boots filled with sand, on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.

With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, A sobering thought came through my mind.

For this house was different, it was dark and dreary, The home of a soldier, I could now see clearly.

The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone, curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.

The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder, not how I picture a United States Soldier.

The very thought brought a tear to my eye, I dropped to one knee and started to cry.

The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice, “Santa don’t cry, for this life is my choice”.

I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more, my life is my God, 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, as 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.

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for a Wonderful New Year.
Homeland Magazine