The War

War Time Holidays

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Celebrating holidays during World War II meant families and friends on opposite sides of the world. Some in harm's way, others longing for their loved ones, and everyone uncertain about the future. The rationing of items including meat, butter and sugar meant new holiday food traditions and toys made of paper and wood rather than metal.

This poem, read by WHYY's Willo Carey, was written by Rhea deCourdes Peterson in 1940. It was discovered by her children decades later after her passing. They were unaware how much their mother tried to shield them and provide a happy Christmas, despite the world's turmoil.

Photos:
Above: December 25th, 1943 - Alfred Dempsey celebrates his 18th birthday while serving overseas for the US Navy. Dempsey, a Brooklyn NY native, dropped out of high school to join his two older brothers, Lawrence and James in serving the United States during World War II.

Below: William Bolanis of Pittsburgh, PA eager to get home for Christmas.

Christmas 1940

Sing it again to them once
And hold tight to your heartstrings
As their faces lift, drinking it in like rain,
"It came upon the midnight clear--"

No more, no more any peace
But they do not know it yet.

This last one time make Christmas beautiful
So they shall not know
So they shall remember
In the gray future that is all we have to give them
One day as shining as those we used to know.

Peace on earth
Make it -- even only in this one corner
And protect the lie and love it
And kneel singing of the Christ we have lost
Which they have yet to lose.

This last Christmas, let the carols ring
And children sing and trees sparkle,
Even as the darkness settles.

Sing through your tears.
Put you arms around them
and shut your eyes and sing.