President Barack Obama marked the end of more than a decade of combat in Afghanistan by paying tribute to America's military, telling troops on Christmas Day that their sacrifices have allowed for a more peaceful, prosperous world to emerge out of the ashes of 9/11. At an oceanfront Marine Corps base in Hawaii, Obama told troops that while tough challenges remain for the U.S. military in hotspots like Iraq and West Africa, the world as a whole is better off because American troops put country first and served with distinction. He said Americans and their president could not be more thankful.
@highlight
Obama used annual Christmas address to reflect on Afghanistan mission
@highlight
Said the war will end 'in just a few days'
@highlight
He and Michelle spent part of Christmas Day telephoning troops overseas
@highlight
Also sang carols and opened gifts with their daughters at their vacation home in Hawaii
@highlight
Michelle also shared an old picture of the couple from a Christmas when they were young
@highlight
Couple also sent their best to former president George H.W. Bush, who spent Christmas in hospital
Marine Corps
'Because of the extraordinary service of the men and women in the American armed forces, Afghanistan has a chance to rebuild its own country,' Obama said to applause from @placeholder and their families.