As we approach the end of the year, our thoughts turn toward Christmas. We reflect on the events of the year just passed, give thanks for all that we have, and take pleasure in the company of family and friends. It is also a time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas beyond the crowded shopping malls, the images of Santa Claus, and the exchanging of gifts.
by Congressman Michael Turner
As we approach the end of the year, our thoughts turn toward Christmas. We reflect on the events of the year just passed, give thanks for all that we have, and take pleasure in the company of family and friends. It is also a time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas beyond the crowded shopping malls, the images of Santa Claus, and the exchanging of gifts.
The importance of Christmas in our history has been apparent since the early days of the American Revolution. On the night of December 25, 1776, General George Washington and his army crossed the icy Delaware River into New Jersey, in a prelude to a surprise attack against troops allied with the British at the battle of Trenton. The subsequent American victory was a huge morale boost for the Continental Army and the American public, and a pivotal turning point in the war for Independence. One year later, after a string of defeats by the British, Washington and his army retreated into their winter quarters at Valley Forge, a week before Christmas. Also, in an effort to reunite a Nation still healing from the wounds of the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson unconditionally pardoned “every person who directly or indirectly” fought for the Confederacy on Christmas Day 1868. Through the years, American families have traditionally observed Christmas in their homes and places of worship. In 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant officially declared December 25th a national holiday.
We are fortunate to live in a country where our freedoms and rights are firmly established and protected. The responsibility of protecting these rights and for keeping our Nation strong falls upon the men and women who serve in our armed forces. Many service members spend holidays away from friends and loved ones.
There are a number of organizations that provide citizens with an outlet to express their appreciation and support to those who bravely defend the United States overseas. One of these organizations, Operation Show Our Love, was founded by Chris and Cindy St. John of Brookville, Ohio. Operation Show Our Love brings a touch of home to the men and women of our military by collecting items such as DVDs, magazines, snacks, chewing gum, toothpaste, and other everyday necessities, and ships them to troops around the world. The organization has shipped 2,942 care packages and over 81,000 pounds of goods to soldiers in 25 countries. To learn more about Operation Show Our Love, please visit their website at: www.operationshowourlove.org or contact Cindy Millikin St. John at CindyMillikin@gmail.com.
May the joyous spirit of this holiday season be with your friends and loved ones this Christmas and throughout the New Year.