Christmas Eve

[Conman]

'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 little house lived.
As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No Stockings by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sobering thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
The home of a Marine, I could now see clearly.
The Marine lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
Not how I picture a United States Marine.
Was this the hero 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 Marines who were 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 Marines, like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wondering how many 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 one knee and started to cry.
The Marine awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don't cry, for 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 Marine rolled over and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still,
as we both shivered from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave, on that cold, dark night,
this guardian of honor, so willing to fight.
Then the Marine 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.
                        ~ Author Unknown *~