President remembers deployed troops at tree-lighting ceremony Published Dec. 2, 2005 By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- President George W. Bush remembered America's deployed servicemembers he said are "serving the cause of peace" during the Dec. 1 Christmas Pageant of Peace and lighting of the national Christmas tree here. "We ask for God to watch over our men and women in uniform who are serving overseas," the president said during the ceremony on the Ellipse. "Their families miss them, hold a seat open for them and pray for their safe return." America's men and women stand for freedom and serve the cause of peace, he said. "Many of them are serving in distant lands tonight, but they are close to our hearts," the president said. "As we approach Christmas in this time of war, we pray for freedom and justice and peace on earth," he said. President Bush recalled President Franklin Roosevelt's address to the nation during Christmas Eve in 1941, weeks after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the United States' entry into World War II. "Against enemies who preach the principles of hate and practice them, we set our faith in human love and in God's care for us and all men everywhere," the president said, quoting President Roosevelt. Following his statement, the president and first lady flicked a switch, illuminating the 40-foot Colorado blue spruce that stands just south of the White House. It will remain in place and open for public visits through the holiday season.