"The majority of troops in Chad and Kosovo are not from Kildare at this time of year," said Defence Forces spokesman Commandant Gavin Young.

"There is only about 15 to 20 who are from Kildare serving serving with the 101 Infantry Battalion in Camp Ciara, Goz Beida, as part of the UN Mission in Chad and the Central African Republic (MINURCAT).

"There will be turkey and ham on Christmas day and mass will be available for troops who wish to attend. It will be a busy day for troops who will queue up to contact family and friends via the Internet, skype (video telephone calling) or the mobile phone.

"We try to keep most of the traditions for the troops including putting up decorations and a tree.

"The guys in Chad all received Christmas boxes from home the week before last and this was a major boost to their morale.

"It will be a white Chrismas for the troops in Kosovo where it is currently minus 15 degrees while in Chad it will be a white Christmas of a different kind. And of course some troops will be on duty that day so it will be like a normal working day for them."

Some of the Kildare soldiers serving abroad took the opportunity to pass on Christmas greetings via the Leinster Leader to their loved ones back home.

Here are some Christmas greetings from some of the troops in Camp Ciara to their families ones back home in Kildare.

Gnr Jason McGannon of Kildare wrote: "Happy Christmas to Charlene, and my daughter, Caitlyn. To my Mam, Geraldine, brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews – missing you loads See you in the New Year, love Jason."

Cpl John Daly sent a special message to his fiancee: "To my fiancee Tammy, Happy Christmas baby. See you in February. Lots of love, John xxxx"

Cpl Richie Kelly from Athy wrote: "To Mary, Chloe and Andrea, Mam and Dad and all my family and friends – I wish you all a Happy Christmas – See you all in February, please God, love from Richie."