Sitting around a miniature Christmas tree and opening a Christmas package are (front row, left to right) S/Sgt. John F. Suchanek; and Pfc. Joseph G. Pierro; and (back row) Sgt. Charles M. Myrich; and Sgt. Leon L. Oben. All are members of F. A. Bn., 3rd Div. Pietramelara, Italy. December 16, 1943. (US Army)

Not everybody is home for the holidays. This is nothing new for the thousands of Marines, sailors, soldiers, airmen and Coast Guardsmen who have been stationed across the globe throughout the decades. But Christmas cheer finds a way to thrive, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Take a look at these photos to see how servicemembers have celebrated the holiday season throughout history. Here, the 'greatest generation' takes a breather to during World War II to spread some festive cheer.