The Santa & The Marine

'Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone, in a one room home, made only of stone.

I had come down the chimney, with presents to give, and to see just who, in this house did live.

As I looked about, a strange sight I did see, no tinsle, no presents, not even a tree.

No stocking by the fire just boots covered in sand, on the wall hung a picture of some far off land.

With medals and badges, and awards of all kind, a sobering thought did come to my mind.

For this house was different, unlike any I've seen, for this is the home of a U.S. Marine.

I'd heard stories about them, I had to see more, so I walked down the hall and opened a door.

And he laid there sleeping. silent, alone curled up on the floor, in his one bedroom home.

He seemed so gentle, his face so serene, not at all how I pictured a U.S. Marine.

Could this be the hero of whom I'd just read? Curled in a poncho, a floor for his bed.

His head was clean shaven, his weathered face tan, I soon realized this was no ordinary man.

I realized the familes, I'd visit this night, owed their lives to these people always ready to fight.

In just a few hours all the children would play and grownups would celebrate a new Christmas day.

They all enjoyed freedom, each month and each year, because of Marines, like the one lying here.

I could not help but wonder hiw many lay alone, on a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.

Just this very thought brought a tear to my eye, I dropped to my knees an started to cry.

He must have awakened for I heard a rough voice, "Don't cry Santa, for this is my choice"

"I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more, me life is my All, my Country, my Corp".

With that he rolled over, and went back to sleep, I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.

I watched him for hours, so silent so still, then notrced he shivered from this cold night's chill.

So I took off my jacket, the one made of red, and covered my hero from his toes to his head.

Then I put on his t-shirt, of scarlet and gold, with eagle globe and anchor, emblazoned so bold.

Although it barely fit me my heart swelled with pride, for this one private moment i felt

'Marine deep inside'

I didn't want to leave him, so quiet in the night, this guardian of honor willing to die in a fight.

But half asleep, he rolled over, in a clean voice he said "Carry on Santa Christmas day is secure"

One look at my watch and I knew he was right, Merry Christmas my friend,

Semper Fi and good night!

Author Unkown

Click here to see the lyrics to the background music.

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