By Governor Jay Nixon

“During the Christmas season, Missourians gather together in joy and celebration with family and friends. This is also a time when we give special thanks for those who are dear to us, for our faith, and for the many blessings in our lives.

“At the holiday dinner table in many Missouri homes, there will be an empty seat because a son or a daughter, or a mother or a father, is overseas serving in our nation’s armed forces. They are thousands of miles away from Missouri and from their families this holiday season – protecting our country, and protecting us.

“I ask that in your thoughts and prayers this Christmas that you remember those serving in the military. Our prayer is that they are kept safe, even as they put themselves in harm’s way on our behalf, and that they return home soon. Please remember the families of those who are serving, as well, as they especially miss their loved ones at this time of year.

“The message of Christmas is one of joy, love and peace, and it has endured for more than two thousand years. In that spirit, Georganne and I wish all Missourians a safe, happy and healthy Christmas season, and a new year filled with joy and peace. May God continue to bless our great state of Missouri.”