CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM COMMANDER CIESLA

Fellow Sons, AMVETS Family, and Friends,
The Christmas message is timeless. It is a day of joy, goodwill, love, peace, and wonderment. From year to year and generation to generation, it does not change. We are fortunate to live in this great country that is dedicated to liberty and freedom of expression.
In December of 1941, President Roosevelt, under the veil of extreme secrecy, invited British Prime Minister Winston Churchill to the White House to discuss the challenges of a world at war. On Christmas Eve, both leaders attended the annual lighting of the National Christmas Tree. After a brief comment by FDR, those in attendance plus radio listeners nationwide were greeted by Prime Minister Churchill. He said: "Let the children have their night of fun and laughter. Let the gifts of Father Christmas delight their play. Let us grown-ups share to the full in their unstinted pleasures before we turn again to the stern task and formidable years that lie before us, resolved that, by our sacrifice and daring, these same children shall not be robbed of their inheritance or denied the right to live in a free and decent world.”
As you continue your traditions with family and friends, may the Spirit of Christmas fill your homes with the hope and love that this holiday season offers us all. I also encourage everyone to pause in prayer for our Veterans and the men and women currently serving and their families who continue their selfless commitment to spread “Peace on Earth and Goodwill to all”.
Have a safe and very Merry Christmas!
 

May God bless you all and may God Bless America.
 

With Warmest Regards,
 

Michael ‘Mick’ Ciesla - Commander
National Sons of AMVETS