A CHRISTMAS EVE MESSAGE TO THE TROOPS

[Geee]

American Spectator:

It is not often noted and perhaps little remembered these days, but seven decades ago this month the battles around the small Italian village of San Pietro decimated the olive groves and many of the American men advancing on well-fortified German positions.

 

My father was commander of Company H of the 143rd Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, during that battle. He had become the company commander in earlier battles, after one more senior officer was captured and another simply quit the fight, telling medics he “couldn’t take any more.”

 

The 36th Infantry Division, and my father, entered combat for the first time at Salerno, on September 9, 1943. The Salerno landing occurred the day after the unconditional surrender of the Italian government to the allies. As Rick Atkinson wrote in his excellent book The Day of Battle, the German commander, Field Marshal Albert Kesselring, declared that the invaders “must be completely annihilated and… thrown into the sea,” so that the British and Americans would “realize that they are hopelessly lost against the concentrated German might.”

 

Like most veterans, throughout his life my father said little of his combat experiences. But at my mother’s urging, on the 50th anniversary of the Normandy landing, he penned a priceless letter to my sons -- his three grandsons -- sharing some of his memories.

 

[Pepper]

@Geee

 

We should be on the lookout any day now for an inspired Christmas eve message from President Obama to those serving in harm's way, and calling on all of us to commemorate the sacrifice that our armed forces make, reflecting on lives lost, including those recently killed, calling for us all to practice humility in the eyes of The Lord, while taking fewer selfies.

[Valin]

8 Americans to Remember This Christmas

Brett Schaefer

 

December 24, 2013

 

Christmas is a time for celebration and family. It should also be a time for reflection, appreciation for all we have, and remembrance of those who are in need.

 

While most of us are gathering with loved ones, there are Americans being held prisoner in repressive countries around the world—often for doing nothing more than practicing their faith, aiding the poor, giving voice to the voiceless, or serving their country. Here are some of their heart-wrenching stories:

 

(Snip)

[Valin]

"Rick Atkinson wrote in his excellent book The Day of Battle"

 

 

Do Yourself a BIG favor!

[Geee]

@Geee

 

We should be on the lookout any day now for an inspired Christmas eve message from President Obama to those serving in harm's way, and calling on all of us to commemorate the sacrifice that our armed forces make, reflecting on lives lost, including those recently killed, calling for us all to practice humility in the eyes of The Lord, while taking fewer selfies.

 

from his 4 million dollar vacation