"Giving Thanks for Your Sailor or Marine"
 

November 22, 2007

By Tricia Summers

This Thanksgiving, an estimated 38.7 million Americans will travel 50+ miles for Thanksgiving, according to a recent survey by AAA.  But for Military folk with family overseas, making a trip to spend the holiday with your loved one isn't an option.  It's a tough time of year for families with loved ones overseas, particularly when their absence is felt more strongly than usual.  Holiday time is family time, and Thanksgiving can be tough to take without your dad, mom, sister, or brother.  

As hard as it may be for family members at home, imagine how lonely deployed sailors and Marines must feel as the holidays draw near.  What if you're the guy who always cuts the turkey at home on Thanksgiving, or the go-to-girl in the post-turkey touch football game?  Thinking about all the fun traditions that you're missing out on can make home seem twice as far away.  But even in the face of such adversity, remember: there are always things to be thankful for.

This Thanksgiving, I'm thankful that my dad is okay.  He's serving with the Navy in Baghdad, and I think about him every day and pray for his safety.  But I am thankful that he seems happy when I get a phone call from him, and that he seems to be keeping himself busy during his deployment.  He runs in road races, likes the people he works with, and is making new friends every day.  While this may seem like a tough attitude to swallow, especially when you're really missing someone, it's the best course to take.  I tell my dad I'm thankful for his well being each time I speak with him.

Want to show them your sailor or marine that you care?  Tell them!  Good ol' fashioned mail is a great option—nothing beats the enjoyment of a tangible letter, gift, or picture.  Email is quick and easy, and if you can give them a call and let them hear your voice, that's even better.  Remember that they're having as tough of time being away for Thanksgiving as your are, maybe even more of a tough time, so showing that you're thankful for their safety, and even letting them know how much you miss them makes a major difference.

Though there may be one less person at the table this Thanksgiving, stay strong for your sailor or marine here on the home front.  Count your blessings, give thanks, and let your loved one know how much you care.  With a positive attitude, you're guaranteed a much happier Thanksgiving.