American servicemembers deployed abroad have been assured of their ability to partake in traditional Thanksgiving foods, thanks to the work of the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), whose Troop Support Subsistence (TSS) team has coordinated the delivery of over 380,000 pounds of holiday food around the world. This effort, described by DLA as one of its largest annual operations, ensures that troops deployed overseas will still be able to enjoy the flavors of home.
The variety of food delivered to the troops has been tailored to meet the unique needs of those stationed in different regions, with the logistics team accounting for the fluid nature of troop distributions. John Sheehan, the TSS’s director of customer operations, described the process as something akin to ‘fingerprints,’ where each holiday menu is uniquely determined by the varying requirements of troops across the globe. In addition to turkey and eggnog, the food supply includes beef, ham, shrimp, sweet potatoes, pies, and cakes. The delivery of these holiday treats highlights the commitment of the DLA and TSS team to not only meet the basic needs of soldiers but to also provide them with a sense of normalcy and connection to home during the holiday season.
Meanwhile, the U.S. military has also highlighted the role of public figures in providing morale support to troops during the holiday season. First Lady Melania Trump and Usha Vance recently visited troops and their families as part of their first joint visit, reinforcing the importance of both military service and family support. This event underscored the broader role of political figures in maintaining morale within the armed forces. Additionally, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth called troops around the world, including those stationed in the U.S., to express gratitude for their service and to extend holiday wishes. Despite challenges with the video connection during the call, Hegseth’s message conveyed a sense of solidarity and appreciation for those serving in uniform, underscoring the personal side of military service and the nation’s commitment to honoring its warriors.