As most veterans can remember, there were some Christmases in their careers when they were not able to be home. Wearing the uniform meant a day of duty and sacrifice.
For many, it was a quiet day of reflection and camaraderie.
Throughout America’s history, there have been significant military activities on Christmas day.
The most famous was Washington's Crossing of the Delaware.
In the winter of 1776, Gen. George Washington wanted to restore faith in the battle for independence. He knew after Christmas celebrations the Hessians — troops hired by the British — would be groggy and not ready for a fight.
On Christmas night, Washington and his troops boarded boats and rowed across the Delaware River. His 2,400 soldiers surprised the enemy who surrendered in an hour.
The Battle of Trenton renewed the hope of a young America.
“Stars and Stripes Forever” is written
Not a military battle but an important part of America’s military traditions.
John Philip Sousa was the director of the Marine band. On Christmas Day 1896, while crossing the Atlantic, he had the idea for the melody of his most famous song. The tune for “Stars and Stripes Forever” was from memories of his time as the Marine band’s leader.
World War I Christmas truce
After months of the First World War, soldiers were not looking forward to spending Christmas away from their families. But something amazing happened on Dec. 24, 1914. Soldiers on both sides put down their guns and walked out of their trenches. For a few hours, there was peace.
The truce was brightened by the arrival of miniature Christmas trees on the German side. Soldiers called out from both sides with requests not to fire. Some were laughing, joking and exchanging gifts.
The Battle of the Bulge
A Christmas in 1944 marks one of the most heroic battles in military history. The soldiers defending Bastogne spent their Christmas on the battlefield.
The Battle of the Bulge lasted six weeks, including the Siege of Bastogne from Dec. 20-27. German battalions were ready to annihilate the troops in Bastogne and a German general gave them two hours to surrender.
Brigadier Gen. Anthony C. McAuliffe famously replied: “Nuts!” The Americans were rescued and celebrated another belated Christmas.