War Secretary Pete Hegseth and his wife, Jennifer, observed Thanksgiving with Navy personnel stationed in Latin America, where they served meals and expressed gratitude for the dedicated service of the sailors. The visit took place amid the Southern Spear mission, a U.S. military operation aimed at countering narco-terror networks across the region. Hegseth, who is known for his strong support of military readiness and traditional values, chose to spend the holiday with the troops rather than with civilian family members.
During the event, the Hegseths were seen serving Thanksgiving dishes to sailors aboard both the USS Gerald R. Ford and the USS Winston S. Churchill. In a video shared on X, Hegset, who recently took over as the War Secretary, joked about the holiday food, acknowledging his usual Thanksgiving traditions while emphasizing the unique circumstances of the military celebration. He also made a personal connection to the event, citing his own experience of being deployed multiple times during his career, which gave him a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members.
While in Latin America, Hegseth also expressed concern for the recent attack on two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C. He offered heartfelt prayers for those impacted by the incident, reaffirming his commitment to the safety and well-being of all U.S. service members. His remarks highlighted the broader context of national security threats, linking the Southern Spear mission to the protection of American interests abroad. The visit underscored the administration’s efforts to maintain a strong, unified approach to defense, even in challenging circumstances.
As part of the Thanksgiving observance, Hegseth delivered a speech aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, where he recounted the historical significance of the holiday as established by George Washington in 1789. The speech included a prayer for all deployed forces, reinforcing the administration’s support for military personnel and their families. His message emphasized the gratitude of the nation for the service and sacrifices of those in uniform, while also calling for continued vigilance in the face of evolving global threats.
A recurring theme in Hegseth’s recent public statements has been the importance of preserving traditional American values, including a strong national defense and a sense of duty. His Thanksgiving visit with the sailors is part of a broader effort to connect with the military community and highlight the importance of their role in safeguarding the nation. The event also serves as a reminder of the diverse environments in which U.S. forces operate, from the shores of Latin America to the heart of the nation’s capital.