Peace in the midst of war…a contradiction to say the least. But around the globe and in every modern conflict, soldiers on the frontline, sailors on the high seas, and civilians caught up in the maelstrom have sought temporary sanctuary in the observance of the Christmas holiday. At times, the circumstances are both poignant and surprising.

Letters reveal the sense of loss, hope and desperate humanity, while traditions and customs were maintained or shelved, at least temporarily. In each case, those in the service and those at home paused, if only briefly, to ponder the meaning of Christmas, the glow of home and hearth, and the ever-present desire for peace. Read their stories in Wartime Christmas.