[AlaskaErik]

This is the time of year I would implore all FReepers who post or pass on the Christmas Poem to ensure it is the original version. You've all seen it. The one by a Marine in Okinawa. If the word "soldier" appears anywhere in the poem, it is a bastardized version that is insulting to the author and to all Marines. So please make sure you pass on the original version. It can be found at www.snopes.com

[The Mayor]

Thanks

[MikeyGo]

"This is the time of year I would implore all FReepers who post or pass on the Christmas Poem to ensure it is the original version. You've all seen it. The one by a Marine in Okinawa. If the word "soldier" appears anywhere in the poem, it is a bastardized version that is insulting to the author and to all Marines. So please make sure you pass on the original version. It can be found at www.snopes.com"

It was my fault. I got it in email and passed it to the Mayor before I checked on its source.

I learned shortly after that it came from elsewhere -- Michael Marks in 2001.

Please forgive me. And, as much as there is rivalry amongst the Services, I would hope that Marines would soften a bit to see that the prayer/poem for them that is broadened to include soldiers (yes, I know there is a difference) is not intended as an insult. I certainly meant none.

Semper Fi, friend. And for all of our military, our allies, and their family and friends I pray Dona Nobis Pacem this Christmas. We have peace because of those who will do war.