The MAMF December 2025 Facebook Banner Ceilon Aspensen, December 1, 2025December 29, 2025 While Christmas is usually top of mind for most Americans, it’s important to remember that many Americans are celebrating Hanukkah, Kwaanza, or something else. Our country is made up of diverse cultures and traditions, and these are all represented in our military ranks. We honor and respect the traditions of all of our military service members. Additionally, it’s so important to remember that so many of our military service members are not at home during this time of year when home is so heavily emphasized. Service members may be far from their families and actually on duty. Service members fortunate enough to have their families with them may be far from their traditional homes back in the states, not able to visit with parents or grandparents. Let’s also remember our BRATs (military dependent children) who are far from their cousins and extended families. When I was a child living in Germany, the traditions of our host country became traditions I’ve carried with me my entire life. Those traditions, and learning about another culture, provided me with experiences that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I encourage you to hold our military service members in your hearts and minds, and keep them in your prayers. They put a lot on the line for us every day, and they pay an extra price during the holiday season so that we can enjoy our freedoms and liberties. Wherever you are this holiday season, wherever you call home, I wish you a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, or a Happy Kwaanza, and a Happy New Year. Peace be with you, and God bless us, every one. Please follow and like us: Art Cultural Studies Diversity Equity & Inclusion Military Brat Culture Writing