The American Expeditionary Force (AEF)
Most Americans celebrate Christmas enthusiastically, gathering the extended family at home for the traditional repast and exchange of gifts around the decorated Christmas tree.
Individuals in the Armed Services, perhaps defending their country in far corners of the globe, are unable to return home for Christmas and must make do with what is at hand.
In 1918, although World War I was officially over, many members of the American Expeditionary Force remained in France. The American Red Cross sent a Christmas card to all the Americans in Orleans, France. We take pride in reproducing it here, for Christmas, 2001.
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