That's why some young performers helped brighten the day with music for an Air Force sergeant who is stationed a continent away from her husband and children.
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Master Sgt. Wendy Day works during the week as a civilian at March Air Reserve Base in Riverside County.
But she's also stationed in Charleston, S.C. as a combat camera journalist.
That means she spends a lot of time away from her Southern California home - and her husband and two kids.
Students with the Riverside Arts Academy recently held a concert that was open to the public but aimed at honoring Day for her service and commitment.
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"I really appreciate the community turning out for us and showing us support at this time of year," Day said. "It truly means a lot."
Collette Lee, president of the academy, said the performance was not just to honor Day but also to teach the children about military service.
"This family, they have a very difficult road because they have two young children and her base is in Charleston, and she has to fly back," Lee said. "Imagine having a newborn baby, and having to do that."