Over Thanksgiving weekend, I was searching the internet to look at some of the other light displays around the country. I was looking for unique songs that I may want to incorporate into my display. Somehow, I stumbled across a fantastic version of Silent Night that I have never heard before and it was written for our Armed Forces. The name of the song was called “Soldiers Silent Night”. You can find out more about the history of the song by clicking here. But with friends in Iraq and relatives who have served, I nearly broke down when I first heard this song. I recommend that everyone take a quick read because it’s a truly touching story that goes along with the song. I have enclosed the lyrics below for those interested.

When the song plays on our display, you will notice that I use very few lights during the first half of the song – so I don’t take away from the powerful words. You will also notice that the front mini trees, which are normally all white, will have the center piece turn Yellow and remain lit the entire time to signify our support.

I hope you enjoy the song and the lyrics as much as I did. For those of you that have served in our armed forces or that have friends/relatives, please pass on my Thanks and Gratitude. I hope you enjoy this small token of our appreciation.

Soldiers Silent Night – Lyrics

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 by 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 through 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, alone,
Curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such 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,
Owed 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.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees and started to cry;
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
“Santa don’t cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more,
My life is my god, my country, my corps.”
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep,
I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still
And we both shivered 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.
Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure,
Whispered, “Carry on Santa, it’s Christmas day, all is secure.”
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.
“Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night.”