A COAST GUARD CHRISTMAS

Twas the night before Christmas and all through each state,
Coast Guard families were starting to celebrate.

Just then from the White House came an urgent call,
A crisis had arisen that would affect one and all.

In fact the State Department was frantic,
For Santa Claus had just gone down in the Atlantic!

It was foggy and Rudolph had made a blunder.
Santa, sleigh, and eight reindeer were going under.

Though the stockings were hung by the chimneys with care.
Poor Santa gurgled, "I'll never get there."

When what to his wondering eye should appear;
But a Coast Guard Cutter with their rescue gear!

The officers and crew were so lively and quick;
Sure was a lucky break for good old Saint Nick.

With a nod from the Captain they went right to work.
Rudolph was embarrassed, he felt like a jerk.

Poor Santa was soggy, but as anyone could see,
He was very grateful to the U.S.C.G!

And we heard him exclaim as they towed him from sight,
"If it weren't for my weight, I'd enlist tonight!"

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR, ALL MY CG FAMILY
                             SEMPER PARATUS

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This from my coast guard friend John Estep of Cincinnati; founder of the group Buckeye Coasties.