T'was 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 I did see,
> No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
>
> No stocking 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 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,
> Curled up on the floor, in this one bedroom home.
>
> The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
> Not how I pictured, a war weary 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 willing 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 thought 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, 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 honour, so willing to fight.
>
> Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice, soft and pure,
> Whispered, "carry on Santa. Christmas day and all is secure."
> One look at my watch, and I knew he was right,
> "Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night."