Far From Home, Close at Heart: A Soldier's Holiday Journey

Finding Joy and Connection Across Continents

Spending holidays away from family as a soldier brings a unique mix of feelings, blending duty with a lingering ache for home. Over the years, I celebrated many holiday seasons overseas, both as a single and married soldier. The warmth of loved ones was replaced by the companionship of fellow soldiers, local friends, and the occasional girlfriend who provided solace in an unfamiliar land. To ease the homesickness, I would venture beyond the military installation, visiting local festivals and gatherings that allowed me to immerse myself in the culture around me. Experiencing local holiday customs brought a new layer of meaning to the season, offering a bittersweet reminder of the family traditions I cherished back home.

My time in South Korea was filled with holiday memories that were both comforting and eye-opening. I joined other soldiers and their families in exploring vibrant street festivals and bustling holiday markets. The South Korean celebrations were colorful and lively, and the warmth of the people made us feel welcome. At times, a girlfriend’s company added a sense of normalcy, making the holidays feel less lonely. We’d explore the city lights together and attend local holiday parties, where I could forget about the distance between myself and my family for a short time. These moments brought some reprieve from the realities of military life and made the season brighter.

One of my most memorable holiday seasons was a spontaneous trip to the Philippines, a quick flight from South Korea. I found a renewed sense of joy and celebration there, surrounded by an open, festive atmosphere, unlike anything I had ever experienced. The people's warmth, beautiful beaches, and holiday spirit created one of the best holiday seasons of my life. For those few days, the struggles of being away from home faded into the background, replaced by a genuine sense of connection and celebration that I carried with me long after I returned to base.

But holidays spent in times of war were different, marked by a sense of caution and distance from both family and civilian life. Freedom to leave the base was limited, and even if it weren’t, the risks often outweighed the rewards. During these times, connecting with family back home became a lifeline. Technology allowed me to see familiar faces, hear voices, and share small moments with those I loved, even through a screen. On base, the military did its best to lift our spirits with special holiday programs, meals, and activities. Those gatherings strengthened the bond among us, reminding us that while we couldn’t be with family, we weren’t alone. We were a family in our own way, carrying each other through the season.

Jason Pike

Veteran, Bestselling Author & Inspiring Speaker

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