When my first wartime Christmas came, I was in basic training in New Jersey.

When my first wartime Christmas came, I was in basic training in New Jersey. At that time I was not sure if I would make it home for the holidays. Only on the afternoon of December 23 did I see the list of men who would have three-day holiday. I was one of the lucky soldiers. It was Christmas Eve when I arrived home, and a little snow had fallen. Mother opened the front door for me. I could see beyond her into the corner of the living room. There the tree has always stood. There were lights of all colors, shining against the green of the tree. I felt so warm and happy!