Bush, Obama teach same history lesson

President Bush and President-elect Obama in their
Christmas addresses to the nation separately invoked an event that took place
232 years ago. 

Both referenced George Washington’s attack on British
forces on Christmas Day in 1776.

{mosads}“In 1776, it looked as if America’s first Christmas as an
independent Nation might also be its last,” Bush stated. He added that the courageous
crossing of the Delaware River to attack British troops in Trenton, New Jersey
provided the miracle that the young country needed.

“In a matter of hours, victory was theirs. Morale
immediately improved. And the American people began to believe that our
Nation possessed the perseverance and courage to protect our liberty,” he
added. “The turnaround that began that night would end with the United States’
triumph in the American Revolution – and the permanent establishment of a free
nation.”

Bush noted that the U.S. military is continuing this
proud tradition and, “with their incredible sacrifices, they preserve the peace
and freedom that we celebrate during this season.”

Obama also praised the troops, saying that “their
extraordinary and selfless sacrifice is an inspiration to us all, and part of
the unbroken line of heroism that has made our freedom and prosperity possible
for over two centuries.”

He also referenced Washington’s Christmas Day attack,
noting that the general and his army “faced impossible odds as they struggled
to free themselves from the grip of an empire.”

“Many ages have passed since that first American
Christmas. We have crossed many rivers as a people,” Obama added. “But the
lessons that have carried us through are the same lessons that we celebrate every
Christmas season – the same lessons that guide us to this very day: that hope
endures, and that a new birth of peace is always possible.”