Lance Cpl. Taylor Wild, a graduate of Severna Park High School, is about to miss his third Christmas at home as he serves in the U.S. Marines.

His mother Betz Wild, told Severna Park Patch that the family has a lot of holiday traditions for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

"It is hard that he is half a world away knowing what we are doing, and knowing he is missing it,” she said.

Taylor will also be deployed for his upcoming 21st birthday.

Click here to read the rest of the story and interview with Taylor's mom on how the family copes with his deployment.

If you know of a local soldier currently deployed, please email kaitlyn.carr@patch.com. Betz Wild said she is always looking for others in the same situation to provide support.

More information on helping the troops this holiday season:

• The Big Bean Collects Cards for Troops
• Local Group Stuffs Stockings for Troops