who had been assigned
the tough and dangerous mission
of forward listeners
deep inside VietCong held territory.
The squad was lead by a savvy sergeant
with 25 years of experience and the others were seasoned combat troops
who had been hand picked for the mission.
There was a Christmas Cease Fire in effect,
but the VC didn't seem to care
and had overrun a small village
killing the people and burning the village.
The group of combat hardened soldiers took time
and carefully buried the dead and knelt in prayer.
The clouds opened and the stars shone brightly.
The Southern Cross shining like a beacon of hope.
peace fell upon this tortured land, her people and the warring soldiers
but as quick as the clouds cleared they returned
with sheets of blinding rain .
Their mission accomplished
the haggard battle scarred soldiers
began the arduous journey through
thick and dangerous jungle,
finally reaching their fire base,
asked the soldiers if they'd seen the beautiful sight,
they all looked at the squad like they were crazy and walked away.
One soldier knelt and said
to his friends and when the sun returned that morning.
It was Christmas Morning.
All was quiet and serene.
God had shut off
the killing and pain
and for at least this one shining day
Peace Came to Vietnam.
but on Christmas Eve
I took a piece of scrap wood and made a "Christmas Tree" for all to see.
and other than my "Tree"
I'm sure it happened
somewhere in Vietnam during The Cease Fire.
and this letter reflects accounts
from friends and memories of Vietnam during my "Tour of Duty
With the Christmas season upon us and
so many servicemen and women who are in far off lands protecting us, so that we can celebrate in Peace. PLEASE! Pass this on to everyone you know, and let all our Servicemen know how much we love and
appreciate their sacrifice for us. They aren't able to be home for the Holidays with their families.
Let us NEVER forget who protects us and gives us the freedom
we cherish so much.
