A Message from the Commander

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Gregory Johnson | Happy Holidays from Singapore!  

SINGAPORE

12.20.2018

Courtesy Story

Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific

Team,

As the holiday season brings 2018 to a close…stay with me here…we also close out the 100-year commemoration of the end of World War I. And, with this in mind, I have one more story to share – one that celebrates the spirit of the season as well as commemorating that 100th Anniversary and a story that has become something of a legend. It happened in 1914, only few months into the fighting, which had been the worst the world have ever seen.

Dug deeply in to their muddy trenches along the dangerous Western Front – the Germans on one side, the French and British on the other – the troops could not even see each other across ‘No Man’s land’. However, as Christmas Eve approached - they could hear each other singing Christmas carols. They may not have recognized the words, but they knew what was going on. Christmas decorations started appear from the trenches. Soon Soldiers from both sides were meeting in No Man’s Land, playing soccer, showing photos of loved ones and celebrating what they had in common. It became known as the “Christmas Truce.”

Living overseas, we can easily sense the differences around us, as well as what we share in common. We can travel the region, or even our neighborhood and see so many different rich cultures with their own unique languages, histories and practices. These same neighbors shop with us; we attend our children’s holiday shows together; we work together. We celebrate diversity – we celebrate our common bonds.

This holiday season, as we celebrate, let’s keep in mind the thousands of our deployed Shipmates from all services – away from their homes and away from their loved ones. Far too often we’re reminded they are willing to lay down their lives for others. We’re always thankful to those who have the watch, but especially this time of year.

In Singapore, sometimes it can seem like we are living in a tropical paradise – and we have much to appreciate around us but we know this assignment is far from a vacation. A lot is asked of our community – and our community always answered the call. As we close out 2018, please take time for you, your family and friends to rest and recharge. We look forward to seeing you as we write this next chapter.

Heather and I wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

• Date Taken: 12.20.2018
• Date Posted: 12.21.2018 00:11
• Story ID: 304697
• Location: SG