Federal employees saw budget and labor reductions during sequestration. Active duty military members temporarily lost tuition assistance and were forced to resort to using their GI Bill or completely putting education on hold. Then came the government shutdown where federal employees were furloughed and military operations were put on hold. More than once throughout the year federal employees pay and benefits were threatened which puts stress on the employee, their family, and the entire workforce.
Giving federal employees, the people who protect, serve, and honor this great country, an extra holiday on December 24, 2013 would not only be a good gesture but it will surely improve morale throughout the federal workforce.