As an ASVAB tutor, I choose to mention certain holidays throughout the year. Today is Christmas. Even though it is not a military holiday, on this day, I would like to remember our military men and women who are not home for the holidays so we can be free. Let us appreciate the sacrifices they make.
Throughout history, several big military actions have taken place on December 25.
On December 25, 1776, General George Washington’s Continental Army crossed the Delaware River. Washington had suffered many military defeats and his troops morale was low. He decided to surprise the enemy. He thought the enemy would be unprepared for an attack after all their Christmas celebrations. He was right. He led about 2,400 troops into Trenton. They surprised the enemy and the enemy surrendered within an hour and a half in the Battle of Trenton.
On December 25, 1864, the Union worked to try to capture the last port that the Confederate Army held on the Atlantic Ocean. The attack started on Christmas Eve and continued into Christmas. This attack did not work at first but succeeded in mid-January 1865. At this time, the Confederates were cut off from world trade and supplies. The war ended three months later.
On December 25, 1896, John Philip Sousa wrote the patriotic song “Stars and Stripes Forever”. He grew up during the Civil War and he was a director the U.S. Marine Band. This song became America’s national march in 1987.
On December 25, 1972, the American troops were in the middle of the biggest bombing mission in military history. Operation Linebacker II was an air campaign that is often known as the action that ended the United States’ involvement in the Vietnam War.
Throughout history, our military members have made sacrifices that have ensured the freedom we have today. We are thankful for their dedication and service to our nation.
