Fresh off the Administration’s major victory on providing tax cuts to the American people just before the holidays last year, Vice President Mike Pence made a surprise visit to troops in Afghanistan to wish them a Merry Christmas.
That makes two things different under the Trump administration than the previous one – respect for our military AND wishing people a Merry Christmas.
It was his first trip to an active war zone.
It was my great honor on behalf of @POTUS & the American people to join our courageous troops in Afghanistan & thank them for their service. It’s because of them that we’re safe. It’s because of them that freedom has a future in Afghanistan, America, and across the wider world. pic.twitter.com/qFWR5DGLSG
— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) December 21, 2017
“You are heroes … You are the best of us … The armed forces of the United States are the world’s greatest force for good,” the Vice President declared.
He then told the troops that prior to leaving for Afghanistan, he had asked President Trump if he wanted to send a personal message to them.
“Tell them I love them,” Pence relayed on behalf of Trump.
Before I left the @WhiteHouse yesterday, I asked @POTUS Trump if he had a message for our troops here in Afghanistan. And he looked at me and said, “Tell them I love them.” pic.twitter.com/PO4F7Z5vOx
— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) December 21, 2017
Pence finished his visit by talking about baby Jesus, a manger, and ‘Peace on Earth, goodwill toward men.’ He then wished our brave men and women in Afghanistan a “Merry Christmas!”
I know there are many faith traditions represented among our troops in Afghanistan. No matter their background & belief, I hope they find renewal & renewed strength in this season. From the First Family and my family and families all across America: Merry Christmas! pic.twitter.com/cV56Vpcxeb
— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) December 22, 2017
The declaration earned Pence quite an ovation from the troops.
