December 18, 2007

During this time of festivities, I'd like to take a moment and thank all of the soldiers who are spending the holidays away from home, many of them in a great deal of danger. I'd also like to thank their families for being strong for their loved ones, during what must be a difficult time for them.

I'd further like to thank all of the soldiers who have been injured, and their families for their care and comfort for our wounded warriors.

Finally, I'd like to express my condolences to the families and friends of soldiers who will never be returning. I pray that you will find solace this Christmas, and hope in this New Year.

To all the soldiers who keep us safe, their families who love them, their friends who strengthen them, the officers and citizens who lead them, and to all my countrymen, and to the world, I wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.