At Uniformed Services Benefit Association® (USBA)®, we understand the importance of military traditions. They help foster a sense of unity, continuity, and connection among service members, their families, and their communities during the holiday season. Shared rituals and customs strengthen bonds, honor service and sacrifice, and bring comfort to service members and their families, especially when celebrating far from home.
How Military Servicemembers Celebrate
Military personnel around the globe celebrate the holiday season in ways shaped by their unique circumstances, cultural traditions, and the camaraderie of service life. While on deployment, service members often decorate their barracks and bases, enjoy l holiday meals with traditional foods, connect with family and friends via virtual gatherings, savor care packages sent by families and support organizations, and celebrate at unit holiday parties. Those stationed abroad might observe local customs with cultural exchanges to foster goodwill and understanding.
For service members of faith, many bases hold interfaith or denomination-specific religious services, like Christmas Mass or Hanukkah observances, to honor the spiritual aspect of the holidays. Personnel stationed near their families may take advantage of holiday events like tree lightings, unit-hosted holiday parties, and base parades for family-friendly celebrations. Finally, many servicemembers honor the spirit of the season by taking part in humanitarian efforts or acts of service.
Spreading Holiday Cheer by Giving Back
For those who believe the holidays are about giving back, you’re in luck! Military organizations offer many ways to support others during the holidays. USBA is proud to highlight initiatives that spread holiday cheer. Get involved with popular charity initiatives like Toys for Tots or Angel Trees to brighten the holidays for children. With Operation Santa, military personnel deliver gifts and supplies to remote areas. Food drives and meal distributions ensure those in need have a festive meal. And collaborations with groups like the Red Cross, USO, and other charities ensure that both military families and civilians in need receive support during the holidays.
Happy Holidays to You and Yours!
From all of us at The Uniformed Services Benefit Association, we wish you a season filled with joy, light, and connection. Whether festive or lowkey, intimate or shared with friends and family … no matter how you celebrate the holidays, we wish you a season filled with peace and happiness.
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