Thanksgiving with the Troops

Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth celebrated Thanksgiving alongside Navy sailors stationed in Latin America, serving meals and expressing appreciation for their commitment.

In a video shared on X, Hegseth and his wife, Jennifer, detailed their decision to spend the holiday on a Navy warship. They were on-site to support Southern Spear, a mission aimed at disrupting narco-terrorist operations throughout the region.

“I’ve been deployed three times, always thinking about home, family, and the typical holiday gatherings with food and football,” Hegseth shared. “These sailors won’t have that experience, so we’re here to bring them some turkey and a bit of cheer.”

He also took time to address an attack in Washington, D.C., that involved two National Guard members, extending prayers for the victims and their families.

During his visit, Hegseth toured both the USS Gerald R. Ford and the USS Winston S. Churchill. Another video showed him serving Thanksgiving meals to sailors. He joked, “You know, we probably give out too much candy on Halloween and too much turkey on Thanksgiving!”

He addressed the crew aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, wishing everyone a happy holiday from himself, the President, and “a grateful nation.” He acknowledged the National Guard, highlighting their bravery and dedication.

Hegseth emphasized, “Whether in our capital, on patrol, or at sea, we are grateful for your service.” He took a moment to speak personally, saying, “On behalf of Jennifer and me, thank you. We truly appreciate you and your families.”

Concluding his address, he referenced George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation from 1789 and ended with a prayer for all those deployed, wishing them safety and expressing gratitude for their service.