Secretary of War Pete Hegseth visited the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford on Thursday to deliver a Thanksgiving message to U.S. troops stationed aboard the vessel. The message, shared through a video address, emphasized the importance of their service and the sacrifices made by military personnel during the holiday season.
Hegseth’s visit was part of broader efforts to acknowledge and appreciate the dedication of service members during a time of year marked by family gatherings and holiday celebrations. The event highlighted the role of the military in national defense and the personal toll that service often takes on those in uniform.
The message also underscored the significance of the holiday season for military personnel, many of whom are stationed overseas and unable to return home for Thanksgiving. Hegseth expressed gratitude for their service and encouraged them to take pride in their contributions to national security.
The visit to the USS Gerald R. Ford is seen as a demonstration of government support for military personnel during a critical time of year. It also represents an effort to maintain morale among troops stationed abroad, who often face challenging conditions and long deployments.