This is a letter to the troops all over the world. I hope this message can reach them all. I also hope those at home help show support for them, not only during December and the holidays, but all the time.

"Dear Hero,

Thank you for all you do for us. You sacrifice everything you have to protect people living back in the United States, as well as those in the location you are stationed. You are a hero. I know few people who would volunteer to give up time with loved ones and trading that time to walk through the streets of a country the U.S. is fighting.

I hope you have a safe and happy holiday, and safety to you throughout your time in the military.

Sincerely,

One Thankful American

Land of the free because of the brave."

While some of us are enjoying time at home during the winter months doing activities we love, others spend theirs fighting for safety and the rights of others. Too often, we forget to pay it forward to those who sacrifice the moments we have to keep this great country stay safe.

It's little things: making (and decorating) Christmas cookies, putting up the Christmas tree, hanging lights on the house, and drinking eggnog we get to enjoy while soldiers and troops do not get to share this season with family this year and years to come.

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines hero as a: a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability b: an illustrious warrior c: a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities d: one who shows great courage.

Soldiers sound like heroes to me. There are plenty of organizations across the country that support our troops stationed wherever they may be located. I encourage everyone who reads this to reach out to those organizations and get involved. The University of Dubuque is getting students involved by having them write and sign a personal message in form of a Christmas card. Things like that cover great distances and lift spirits.

Whether it's a care package or a card, say thank you.