Many families are a part of family readiness groups that support each other during the holidays.

The high holidays were always prepared for far in advance by my family.

One of the best things that the chaplains are doing right now is when married soldiers return home they go to a 'Strong Bonds' workshop. At the workshop, they are taught how to communicate stress and rebuild the relationships. Sometimes at the end of the training they perform a recommitment of their vows.

(Chaplains will) hold Bible studies and worship services (if they are a Christian chaplains). They have a responsibility of making sure every person has an opportunity to exercise their faith.

I'm retired, so working on holidays really doesn't bother me. My family and I celebrated Christmas early this year, on Friday. It might be difficult for some people, but my family is accommodating, so it works for us.

They were our family away from Alabama. We spent all our holidays together and celebrations of our kids.