America’s First Christmas

In December of 1776, the future of our nation was far from certain. No one knew that America was on the verge of defeating the British army, let alone that it would become the great country it is today. Instead, just six months after signing the Declaration of Independence, things were not going well for George Washington and the Continental army.

Cold, hungry, ill-equipped and with more reason for despair than hope; the easy thing to do would have been to quit. Instead, Washington and his generals came up with a surprise attack on Hessian soldiers in Trenton on Christmas night. As the enemies' mercenaries enjoyed their holiday with food and drink, Washington and his men quietly prepared to cross the Delaware River.

Within two hours of the battle's beginning, Washington and his men had arrived under complete surprise to capture 900 Hessians. The news of a great victory at Trenton and then Princeton spread through the country. There were still many more battles to be fought and won, but for the first time many Americans were beginning to believe that freedom was within reach.

Almost 240 years later, the greatest experiment in the history of the world continues to be a beacon for hope and freedom. Our democracy is not perfect and at times our future seems uncertain, but it continues to be the best form of government the world has ever known. Like Washington and his men, we too will not quit. We have the hope and the ability to leave the next generation a nation that is better and stronger than we found it.

May God bless the brave men and women overseas who have given up this important day and many others to ensure that you and I can enjoy a safe and Merry Christmas.

Sincerely,

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Sam Graves