‘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 on 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 into my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary; I found the home of a Soldier, once I could see clearly.
The Soldier lay sleeping, silent and alone, on the floor he slept, in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in disorder, Not how I pictured a United States Soldier.
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. Owe their lives to these Soldiers, 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 Soldiers, like the one lying here!
I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone, on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
This very thought brought a tear to my eye, I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The Soldier awakened and I heard his voice, “Santa don’t cry this life is my choice.
I fight for Freedom; I don’t ask for more, Defending my Country is what I adore.”
The Soldier rolled over and drifted off to sleep, I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still, trying to stay warm 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.
The Soldier woke up with a voice soft and pure, “It’s Christmas day Santa, All is Secure.”
One look at my watch and I knew he was right, “Merry Christmas my friend and to all a Good Night.”
The Truth... 
Great Bob thanks