Some may have already read this but is always worth repeating even though it's about Christmas the time is always appropriate...
Best Wishes for My Fellow Vets!!!!
This carries a copy right but as long as you include the credit at the end, please do pass it on...
T'was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone. I
came down the chimney with presents to give to see in
this dwelling, who really did live.
As I looked all about, strange sights I did see, no
tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. No stockings
were hung, just boots filled with sand, the wall had
pictures, of strange far off lands.
Shelves stuffed with medals, awards of all kinds, when
a sobering thought, smashed into my mind. This house
was distinct, unlike any I'd seen. This house was the
home, of a U.S. Marine.
The stories I read, now I had to see more, so I walked
through the hall,
then pushed open the door. Silently sleeping, he laid
all alone, Curled on the floor, in his one bedroom
home.
He seemed so gentle, his face so serene; this was not
my concept, of a U.S. Marine. Was this the hero, of
whom I had read? In a poncho liner, a floor for his
bed?
His head was clean shaven, his weathered face tan. I
soon understood, this was more than a man. I conclude
the families, I call on tonight, owed their lives to
these men, who are willing to fight.
At day break the nation's, children would play. Adults
would rejoice, on a bright Christmas day. They all
enjoyed freedom, month long and all year, Because of
Marines, - like the one lying here.
Many Marines, rest cold and alone, on Christmas eve,
in lands far from their homes. This thought struck me,
brought tears to my eyes, I dropped to my knees and
started to cry.
He awoke to my sobs, for I heard his rough voice. "
Santa don't cry, for this life is my choice. I fight
for our freedom, and don't ask for more, My life is My
Gods', - My Country and Corps!"
"We have some leaders, who chose not to fight, they
never experienced, deaths grip in the night. But that
does not stop me - from doing my chore, For while I'm
on duty, you're safe on these shores."
I stood up and wiped, the tears with my hand, His
dignity enough, to honor this man. This Guardian of
Honor, so willing to fight, I remember his words on
that cold Christmas night.
He rose to his feet, and was soon standing tall, while
I picked up my bag, I had dropped in the hall. He
saluted then spoke, the words crisp and tight,
"Merry Christmas my Friend, Semper Fi, and Goodnight!"
Written by Gunnery Sergeant Anthony C. Hicks USMC
Marine Corps Recruiting Station 181-198 West Gun Smoke
Dodge City, KS 67801 Printed in Leatherneck Magazine
USMC - December 1994