In 1977, I was stationed on the USS Hermitage, LSD 34, out of Little Creek, Va., as an Operation Specialist. Our ship had returned from a Med cruise just before Christmas. I had not seen my family for eight months and had duty on Christmas day. My two week leave started on Dec. 29th.
Christmas day was gray and cloudy. The duty crew was served turkey with all the trimmings and the spirit of the season was there, but it wasn't the same as being at home. It was the first Christmas I had ever missed. I had to smile as I thought about my family, my grandparents and uncle, all enjoying Christmas like we always had. I hit the sack early that night.
I traveled home on the 29th and arrived late in the evening. It was good to be home after being gone for so long. I opened the door and the first thing I saw was the Christmas tree. All the presents were still there. The house was still fully decorated. My family had waited for me. We celebrated the next day and had a great time. It was truly a Christmas I will never forget. God bless America.
Hickory, NC