Merry Christmas Calhoun Shipmates!
Of all the people to whom The Almighty could have sent his angels to announce the Good News of the birth of Jesus Christ, He sent them to shepherds. They were considered pretty low-class in society in that day and age. The Lord did not give this attention to kings, presidents, governors, or even religious leaders. This birth was Good News of Great Joy for All People. I hope all of you have a very Merry Christmas. I hope your family is near, your traditions are meaningful, and that great joy fills your hearts and minds. Remember our shipmates that have lost loved ones this year. The holidays are harder on them, so remind them that they’ve got a brother in you. Do remember everyone deployed. My first patrol was a Christmas patrol and many of us have spent the holidays punching holes in the ocean. Evil and enemies never rest, neither do our shipmates that continue our legacy as heartbreakers, lifetakers, steely-eyed killers of the deep.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you.
Jim Bettison
Chaplain John C. Calhoun Veterans Association