Christmas Eve is the night most often associated with the song, “Silent Night.” In 1914, history reports that British and German troops stopped fighting while they decorated their barracks and sang Silent Night. In World War II, battle was suspended on many fronts to tune into opera star Ernestine Schumann-Heink singing, Stille Nacht. She had one son fighting for the Axis and one son fighting for the Allies.

 

America’s involvement in the world made a difference. Today’s Europe has a unified Germany and a French government headed by a pro-American President who is trying to implement market reforms. Countries like Poland and Denmark are not only free, but consider America their friend.

 

Once again American men and women are fighting overseas during Christmas. Now, like then, they are fighting to make the world safer from tyranny. Whether they are in Iraq, Afghanistan or Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany- all are serving their country proudly.

 

Like you, I’ve seen the outstanding job they have done in the Middle East this year. Particularly in Iraq, where violence has plummeted since July and where we are about to start drawing down the number of troops stationed there. They are fighting terrorists there, to keep us safe at home.

 

On this Christmas, I ask for everyone to say a prayer for those Americans serving overseas and away from their families. I also want to thank them for their service. And for everyone else, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas! 

 

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