Obama sends special message of thanks to troops

The president, who made the broadcast with his wife Michelle, is spending the holiday with his family in Hawaii.

Mrs Obama said: “This holiday season at the White House, we wanted to show our thanks with a special holiday tribute to some of the strongest, bravest, and most resilient members of our American family – the men and women who wear our country’s uniform and the families who support them.”

The president noted that with the Iraq war over, the last troops from the conflict were home for the holidays after nearly nine years of US military involvement. He said: “For many military families, the best gift this year is a simple one – welcoming a loved one back for the holidays.

“So let’s take a moment to give thanks for their service, for their families’ service, for our veterans’ service.

“And let’s say a prayer for all our troops standing post all over the world, especially our brave men and women in Afghanistan who are serving, even as we speak, in harm’s way to protect the freedoms and security we hold dear.

“Giving of ourselves, service to others – that’s what this season is all about.

“So whatever you believe, wherever you’re from, let’s remember the spirit of service that connects us all this season – as Americans.

“Each of us can do our part to serve our communities and our country, not just today, but every day.”