The Night Before Christmas

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 the mantle, just boots filled with sand
On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands

With medals and badges, awards of all kinds
A sober thought came through my mind

For this house was different, it was dark and dreary
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder

Not how i pictured a united states soldier
Was this the hero of whom I just read?
Curled up on a pncho, the floor for a bed?

I realized the families I saw on this night
Owed their lives to these soldiers, who are willing to fight

Soon round the world the children would play
And grownups would celebrate a bright christmas day

They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year
Because of the soldiers, like the one lying here

I coludn't help wonder, how many more lay 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 is my life 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 started to weep

I kept watch for hours, so silent and still
And we both shivered from the cold nights chill

I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night
This guardian of honor so willing to fight

The solder rolled over 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