I joined my first Sqdn, in Germany, two days before Christmas in '55. My old mum was distraught that the RAF could treat me (her) so cruelly. Actually I had a cracking time, but being the new bod was delegated for airfield guard duty on New Year's Eve. I landed the 2-4 shift, and with three other erks was dropped off at the far side of the airfield, which bordered onto a pine forest.
Walking up and down my stretch of patrol, in total darkness,
I was convinced demons were going to leap out any moment, thankfully I did have a pick-axe shaft to ward them off!
Other than that, one Christmas, in Singapore, on det., in 20 yrs. so no complaints.
Happy New Year and a safe one, to all those serving.