President Donald Trump told U.S. military members deployed overseas that “every American heart is thankful” for their service, as he wished them and their families a “very, very merry Christmas” during a video conference call Sunday.

The president spoke to representatives from each branch of the U.S. armed forces as he praised them for their service to the nation.

Pointing to the military’s successes in combating terrorism and delivering relief to Americans suffering from a string of natural disasters, Trump proclaimed that the U.S. is “winning” again as he delivered “seasons greetings on behalf of the first lady and our entire family and most importantly, on behalf of the American people.”

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“Very, very merry Christmas. We’re going to have a great year, an incredible year,” Trump said. “Today and every day, we’re incredibly thankful for you and for your families. Your families have been tremendous. Always underappreciated, military families, the greatest people on earth.”

While other Americans celebrate the Christmas season with their friends and families, the president acknowledged the steep sacrifices U.S. troops make to keep Americans safe.

“As we celebrate this most precious holiday, we’re grateful for each of you who spend this Christmas away from your families and defend all of our families, our freedom and our flag,” Trump said. “Every American heart is thankful, and we’re asking God to watch over you and to watch over your families.”

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Trump noted Americans are now saying “Merry Christmas, again, very, very proudly” during his administration. The president also gave a shoutout to every service member who took part in the hurricane relief efforts.

“What a job you’ve done. The Coast Guard saved thousands and thousands of lives … It’s unbelievable when I look at the charts. I saw the number of lives you saved,” Trump said. “So I want to congratulate the Coast Guard for having done an incredible job.”

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(photo credit, homepage image: President Trump’s Trip to Asia, Public Domain Mark 1.0, by Shealah Craighead)