Monday, November 20, 2006

...pray for our soldiers who live In Harm’s Way!

As we move into the Holiday Season, I would like to change the subject from all things Buffalo Soldiers, to our men and women now serving in the arm forces around the world. A couple of years ago I came across a poem that was written by a Marine stationed in Japan. Unfortunately I do not know his name for I would like to acknowledge him and the message it reflects.

I am not too proud to say that it brings a tear to my eye every time I read it.

Twas the night before Christmas...

‘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 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 many pictures of distance lands. With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, a sober thought came through, from the depths of 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 home for 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 willing to fight. Soon round the world the children would play, and grown-ups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom each day 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 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.”

The preceding was written by a Marine stationed in Okinawa Japan.

The Freedoms we enjoy, they all seem so nice, but were purchased by soldiers who paid the ultimate price. Before you turn-in at the end of each day, please say a prayer for our soldiers who live In Harm’s Way!

Season’s Greetings and Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Trooper Ronald R Jones

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