Last year I was deployed for Christmas (again). This year, I’m home but a lot of our comrades and readers are deployed (again).
If you’re a regular reader, you’re probably familiar with our consistent themes, here’s a few to think about on Christmas:
Purpose: If you’re in the Department of DEFENSE, regardless of your job – you are charged with defending the nation. So if you’re away from home for whatever reason, make sure your efforts lend to the defense of our nation. Forget about the churn, the staff work, and the uselessness – concentrate on what you do for purpose. Be proud of that.
Public Affairs is Important: Know what you’re doing is important. Without you, our taxpayers and lawmakers wouldn’t give us the resources, support, and authority we need to protect our citizens. I’m sure being in a less-than-supportive command is exhausting. Look for ways to change your position because what you do is important, and worth being away from home.
Your Peers, Subordinates, and Superiors Need You: Find the good, highlight your team’s accomplishments, remind everyone of their purpose and sing it. No one wants a glum PAO. A PAO is a staff guy AND a leader.
We Are Thankful: The cool news is, public affairs peeps are a good, joint family. Those of us at home are thankful for what you are doing. Many of us regret not being there with you. I’m going to pour a little out.
Time-Honored Tradition: It sounds dumb to celebrate being away from home for the holidays but let’s be honest – it’s a time-honored tradition of the US Military. There’s even Christmas carols about it. Our nation was born from military ops during the holidays – George Washington began the surprise attack into Jersey by crossing the Deleware on freaking Christmas. Yep, military people are often deployed for Christmas. Sorry if your recruiter forgot to mention this. If you’re like me, you’ll cherish these memories.
Servicemembers Kick Ass: As I write this, a buddy of mine who is in Ranger School called. He recycled the first phase and is going on block leave. He was laughing, spirits super high, ready to go back to the suck in January. Last year, my team didn’t miss a beat through the holidays – banded together in support of the mission. I also remember my first deployment in 2003 when the Ops NCO (who is now a standup comedian) took control of the FOB (barley a FOB) loudspeaker and played I’ll be home for Christmas, then screeched it of mid-song and yelled: “no we won’t, now get back to work!” We all had a good laugh.
Now get back to work. What you’re doing is important. Merry Christmas, happy holidays. See you in X country next year, protecting America.
Photo by Sgt. Kyle Alvarez
