The holiday season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and gathering with loved ones. For many civilians, November is filled with decorating homes, unpacking ornaments, and preparing for family celebrations. For service members, Thanksgiving often looks very different—but the heart of the holiday remains the same.

Whether in a mess hall, aboard a ship, in a tent, or on a base thousands of miles from home, service members and their families find ways to make the day meaningful. Across continents and oceans, there is connection, community, and a shared sense of belonging that transforms ordinary spaces into places of celebration.

Home Is Where the Unit Is

Step onto a military base on Thanksgiving, and you can feel the mix of nostalgia, warmth, and longing. Dining halls are often decorated with flags, festive table settings, and rows of pies at the buffet, carefully prepared to make the day special.

The aroma of roasted turkey fills the air, but it’s not just the food that makes the holiday memorable—it’s the people.

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Commanders, chiefs, sergeants, and fellow service members turn strangers into family, even if only for a night. Around the table, service members often realize: “I’m not alone. Everyone is missing home as well.”

That shared experience, carrying pieces of home in each heart, creates a unique sense of belonging and community.

The Meaning of Thanksgiving Doesn’t Change

Thanksgiving in the military may be different, but its essence is the same. Gratitude, reflection, and connection remain at the center of the holiday, even during deployments, separations, or operational duties.

Service members may spend the holiday in a desert tent, at sea on a ship, or on call for unexpected missions.

Despite these challenges, moments of gratitude persist—whether through a phone call from family, a shared meal with teammates, or simply taking a moment to reflect on what they are thankful for.

There Is Gratitude in Uniform

In the military, your unit often becomes your family. Colleagues support one another, share meals, celebrate achievements, and create traditions that help fill the gap of being away from home.

Thanksgiving in uniform is more than a meal—it’s a feeling of being seen, valued, and part of something bigger than oneself. Bases open their doors, ensuring no service member feels alone, while laughter, stories, and camaraderie make even the toughest deployments brighter.

Even far from home, gratitude thrives in uniform, and the sense of community brings warmth and connection during the holiday season.

This Thanksgiving, We Share Our Gratitude

While families across the United States gather around their tables, another table stretches across continents and oceans—on ships, in tents, and on bases worldwide. Service members’ dedication allows others to celebrate in peace, and their sacrifices deserve much appreciation.

To every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, and Guardian spending Thanksgiving away from home: you are seen, missed, and deeply valued. Your courage and commitment connect you to countless others who are grateful for your service.

May this Thanksgiving remind all service members that no matter how far from home you are, you are never truly alone. From all of us who enjoy our holidays in safety, thank you.

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