U.S. Service Members Celebrating Thanksgiving Around The Globe
By Tiffany Williams –
As families around the United States prepare to sit around the table this holiday, Thanksgiving menus look a bit different, but the Thanksgiving joy is the same for the soldiers with the U.S. Army’s Task Force Mountain, 10th Mountain Division and Marines with the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command in Kuwait.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke on Thursday with these service members to wish them a Happy Thanksgiving.
On each call he made, Secretary Austin expressed his gratitude to each service member and their families for their service and sacrifice in defense of the United States and in support of America’s allies and partners.
Secretary Austin highlighted the important contributions our service members are making to ensure our country is safe and secure as they carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism around the world.
Not only did Service members receive a special call from Secretary Austin, but this year, service members around the world received an estimated 28,945 whole turkeys, 82,592 pounds of roasted turkeys, 145,760 pounds of beef, 70,957 pounds of ham, 40,534 pounds of shrimp, 5,007 pounds of sweet potatoes, 46,464 pies and cakes, and 7,407 cans of eggnog.
On Monday, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited Service Members and Military Families in Norfolk, VA. When speaking to them, First Lady Jill Biden talked about a time when her son Beau was deployed and how she could see how much his children missed their daddy. Biden said, “I know how many in this room are living with an empty chair at your table right now. Or maybe you’re stationed far from your family, and your table is a little smaller this year. You and your families sacrifice so much in times of war and peace. And it’s our duty and honor to make sure that you feel supported. ”
