The young sailor has returned home on leave, and stands in his living room surrounded by the familiar and comforting trappings of Christmas.

"Patriotic" is the best word to describe the decorations on this tree. American manufacturers scrambled to make simple glass ornaments to replace the elaborate hand-blown German versions no longer available due to the war.

Money was tight and imports were restricted. Metal was collected for the war effort. How did this influence holiday gift giving? See a stack of authentic 1940's wooden and cardboard gifts tucked under the tree.

Browse the display cases of Christmas cards, V-Mail and ration cards of that era. Ponder how people communicated with troops overseas and learn why V-Mail was encouraged. Discover how supplies were rationed and see the actual cards which were redeemed for sugar and other household staples.

Note the themes of patriotism and loyalty which decorate the Christmas cards intended for soldiers at war far from home.