The U.S. military has ensured that American servicemembers stationed around the world will be able to enjoy traditional Thanksgiving meals this holiday season. The Defense Logistics Agency’s (DLA) Troop Support Subsistence (TSS) team coordinated a massive effort to secure over 380,000 pounds of holiday food, including 152,626 pounds of turkey and 792 cases of eggnog. This effort, one of DLA’s largest annual operations, aims to provide troops with a taste of home during a time of service.
The department noted that the fluctuating numbers of troops in different regions require precise planning to meet the unique needs of each location. John Sheehan, TSS director of customer operations, explained that holiday requirements are ‘like fingerprints’—no two are alike — and that the availability of specific items depends on troop preferences and the fluid nature of military deployments. This year’s menu includes a wide variety of Thanksgiving staples, from turkey and ham to sweet potatoes and pies.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Shemika Harris, a TSS military food advisor, expressed her admiration for the DLA’s dedication to bringing Thanksgiving to servicemembers across the globe. ‘They approach each holiday with a sense of pride and purpose knowing that these meals mean far more than just food,’ Harris told DOW. The mission goes beyond logistics—it’s about maintaining morale and connection to home during challenging deployments.
This week, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth called troops around the world, including some in the U.S., to wish them a happy Thanksgiving and to thank them for their service. DOW highlighted that during one of the calls with troops, the video option was not working, so Hegseth quipped, ‘I can hear you loud and clear. In my mind’s eye, captain, you are a staggeringly handsome individual, as are all two dozen of the incredible sailors behind you.’ The personal touch in these interactions reinforces the sense of community and appreciation for the men and women serving overseas.
Alongside the Thanksgiving meals, the military has also provided a range of holiday treats, including 6,512 cans of sweet potato and 15,282 cases of pies and cakes. The effort reflects the broader commitment to supporting troop morale through small but meaningful gestures. As troops prepare for the upcoming holiday, these provisions offer a reminder of the sacrifices made to defend the nation’s interests, while also providing a glimpse of home for those stationed abroad.