Soldier Night Before Christmas

By Major Bruce Lovely 

''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 mantle, just boots filled with sand,
on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.

With medals and badges and awards of all kinds,
And a sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was so dark and dreary,
I had found the home of a Soldier, once I could see clearly.

The Soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor of this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured a United States Soldier.

Was this the hero whom 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 bright Christmas Day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
Because of the Soldier, like the one lying here.

I couldn't help wonder how many lie 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 night's cold 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 and 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.