Obama thanks U.S. troops, jokes about keeping up with their workouts

In an annual tradition, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama visited U.S. troops stationed in Hawaii on Christmas to thank them for their service. The president also acknowledged the danger troops face, referencing the suicide attack that killed six U.S. airmen in Afghanistan on Monday, The Washington Post reports.

"We never take for granted what all of you do for the American people," he said at the Marine Corps base in Kaneohe Bay. "You help keep us free. You help keep us strong, and whatever service you're in, whatever branch, we are extraordinarily grateful for everything that you do every single day."

Obama also joked he can't keep up with those who serve, ABC News reports.

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"I generally feel like your commander-in-chief is in pretty good shape," he said. "Then I get next to some guy curling 100 pounds and it makes me feel small. But that's okay. It gives me some inspiration. I'm going to work harder so I can keep up with you next year."