U.S. troops celebrate Christmas in Syria

'Operation Holiday Express'

SYRIA (KYMA, KSWT, KECY) - Hundreds of U.S. troops based in Syria celebrated Christmas thousands of miles away from home, thanks to Operation Holiday Express.

The operation was possible thanks to a coalition force in neighboring Iraq.

Soldiers received stockings filled with Christmas goodies, toiletries, and other gifts donated by support organizations in the U.S. as well as churches and charity organizations.

Christmas music was played by a military band from the First Infantry Division, which traveled all the way from Kansas, bringing troops a piece of home.

The aim of "Operation Holiday Express" was to bring a touch of the Christmas cheer to those on active duty.