Across the miles

As we enjoy a turkey dinner in our warm homes with family and friends, please take the time to remember our military families this holiday season.

For Canadian troops stationed overseas, being far from home this time of year can be a difficult time.

Not only is it a trying time for the soldiers, but for their families as well who will be spending Christmas apart from their loved ones.

That is why The National Defense and Canadian Forces website (www.forces.gc.ca) offers a "Support Our Troops" message center to anyone who wants to send a message to soldiers overseas.

The online message board is available throughout the year, but has an abundance of Christmas messages this year for our heroes during the holidays.

The site also provides mailing information for sending Canadian troops correspondence like post cards or letters from individuals, organizations or schools.

To acknowledge a soldiers sacrifice and contribution as they serve on the front lines is the least we can do.

Living conditions for soldiers, some are on the front lines about 45 kilometers away from the military base, are deplorable. Living in desert temperatures with no showers or cooking facilities, while sleeping in a truck and using sandbags to protect them from enemy gunfire.

A few encouraging words can make all the difference and can be a motivating factor in what they accomplish.

The debate on whether or not the Canadian troops should be overseas, is one that won't go away, but which ever side you believe in, it won't change the fact that there will be thousands of soldiers spending Christmas away from home this year.

It also helps to show kindness to families on this side of the Atlantic this year.

It takes little effort to convey a Christmas message on a card or to engage in conversation with a family member. I'm sure it would be greatly appreciated and never forgotten.

Every little thing we do counts and something as simple as a card or a message can go a long way in expressing our gratitude for all they and their families do. Let's spread a little Christmas cheer - no matter how far the distance.