A "Merry Christmas" indeed. The real shame is that they can't all be safely home for it.
Obviously you never served on active duty or you'd understand it is part of the deal. I spent many years away from home for the holidays either
stateside or overseas or in the Gulf or the Indian Ocean, the Sailors,Marines, Soldiers, and Air Force troops all go with the flow and yes we all wanted to be "home" but many kind Americans sent us care packages and that made a nice difference. We used to write to Ann Landers when we'd get on station (Gonzo Station) in like October so when Christmas came we'd be doing good.
Have a grand day
