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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

From Obama, a final Christmas tribute to the troops

President Barack Obama, joined by first lady Michelle Obama, speaks during an event to thank service members and their families at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Sunday. (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press)
By Josh Lederman Associated Press

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii – For eight years, Barack Obama has led a military fighting in multiple theaters overseas, becoming the only president in U.S. history to serve two full terms with the nation at war. On Sunday, he sought to pay tribute to the men and women who sacrificed along the way in battles that will continue even after his presidency comes to a close.

There was a tinge of nostalgia as Obama visited U.S. troops on Christmas for the last time, and some solemnity, too. The president, who spent Christmas Eve calling troops serving overseas, pointed out that as Americans celebrate the holidays, U.S. troops are serving in dangerous, remote places like Iraq and Afghanistan.

He said some were carrying out missions against the Islamic State group even on Christmas Day.

“As tough as it is to be deployed, the people here in America, back home, understand that every single day you serve, you’re fighting for our freedom,” the president said, with first lady Michelle Obama at his side.

Obama has made it a tradition to spend some time on Christmas at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, not far from the rented house that he and his family have made their winter home away from home. As Obama spoke, a few hundred troops sat around tables in uniforms, many with their families, in a mess hall hosting their Christmas meal.

“I just want all of you to know that it has been the privilege of my life to serve as your commander in chief,” Obama said.

He said even though he wouldn’t be addressing them again as president, he wanted to convey that as a private citizen, “my gratitude to you will remain.” He said his wife felt the same way.

“Our commitment to standing by you every step of the way – that won’t stop,” Obama said.