Christmas is perhaps the time in the year when the separation from family and friends is more emotional for most of those in service and for their families.

On Christmas Day, pause and remember those serving for all of us. Remember that they have families like yours, and those families will celebrate the holiday while an important member of the family is missing. Remember also those families who have lost someone in war. There will be children and spouses who must shoulder the loneliness and loss while other families share the joy of the season. Remember also those troops and the many veterans confined to hospitals during the holidays.

All of those I have mentioned stepped forward when the country called. They all honored us with their willingness to serve, and we should thank God for those who are willing to do so. Their sacrifice allows your family to celebrate in peace.

I wish all a merry Christmas shared with families and friends, but I also wish those I mentioned above the same, and I do so with gratitude for their service. None of you has been forgotten.

Jack Dragoni attended Boston College and served in the U.S. Army in Berlin and Vietnam. He lives in Chaffee, Missouri.