christmastreelightingceremony2005

Bush Remembers Deployed Troops
During Tree-Lighting Ceremony

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2005 – President
Bush remembered America's deployed
servicemembers who he said are
"serving the cause of peace" during the
Dec. 1 Christmas Pageant of Peace and
lighting of the national Christmas tree
here.
"We ask for God to watch over our men
and women in uniform who are serving
overseas," Bush said during the
ceremony on the Ellipse. "Their families
miss them, hold a seat open for them
and pray for their safe return."

America's men and women stand for
freedom and serve the cause of peace,
he said.

"Many of them are serving in distant
lands tonight, but they are close to our
hearts," he said.

"As we approach Christmas in this time
of war, we pray for freedom and justice
and peace on earth," the president said.

Bush recalled President Franklin
Roosevelt's address to the nation
during Christmas Eve in 1941, weeks
after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and
the United States' entry into World War
II.

"Against enemies who preach the
principles of hate and practice them, we
set our faith in human love and in God's
care for us and all men everywhere,"
Bush said, quoting Roosevelt.

Following his statement, the president
and first lady flicked a switch,
illuminating the 40-foot Colorado blue
spruce that stands just south of the
White House.

It will remain in place and open for
public visits through the holiday
season.

1941, December 24. President
Roosevelt and Prime Minister Churchill,
Christmas tree lighting ceremonies,
White House, Washington, D. C.
Roosevelt: "Our strongest weapon in
this war is that conviction of the dignity
and brotherhood of man which
Christmas Day signifies-more than any
other day or any other symbol."
Churchill: "We may cast aside, for this
night at least, the cares and dangers
which besiege us and make for the
children an evening of happiness in a
world of storm.