Holidays As A Soldier



Instead of planning exciting parties, I’m planning dangerous missions.

Instead of donning festive attire, I’m wearing my tattered uniform.

Instead of wrapping beautiful presents, I’m packing my tactical gear.

Instead of enjoying delicious food, I’m opening my MRE.

Instead of sipping hot cocoa, I’m drinking water from my canteen.



While others are polishing silver, I’m cleaning my weapon.

While others are visiting loved ones, I’m pulling photos from my pocket.

While others are dodging snowballs, I’m dodging bullets.

While Santa is carrying his big pack, I’ll be lugging my ruck sack.

While others are “decking the halls” with garland, I’ll be “decorating” with camouflage netting.



As others are baking holiday cookies, I’ll be baking in the hot desert sun.

As others stand before a Christmas tree, I’ll stand on watch for the enemy.

As others are “nestled all snug in their beds”, I’ll be ever vigilant and watchful instead.

As others wish their kids to be “calmer”, I’ll hope I don’t see a suicide bomber.

As others don’t really have a clue, my squad has quietly stopped a coup.



I choose to defend our nation, so that they may continue their celebration.

There are many happy moments that I will miss, but the dangers I meet, will be endless.

I’m hoping to go home after this tour, but for PTSD there is no cure.

When I’m having a lonely day, I always bow my head to pray…

Not for protection just for me, but mostly for my family.



Nina Herron