Acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller released a Thanksgiving Day message to all service members. Here’s the full text:
In this season of gratitude, I want to say how deeply honored and thankful I am to serve
alongside the men and women of the Department of Defense.In his proclamation establishing Thanksgiving as a national holiday, President George
Washington set aside this day for Americans to reflect on their many blessings, which include
living in a republic dedicated to securing the “safety and happiness” of its people.Each and every day, you commit yourselves to this cause – protecting and serving our
great Nation – not for fortune or personal gain, but for a safe, free, and prosperous future for all
Americans.Whether reassuring our partners and allies in the skies over Europe or in the waters of the
Pacific; denying safe haven to terrorists in Iraq and Afghanistan; or supporting civil authorities
across the Nation, you have never wavered from your mission of serving the American people.This year, you did all of this while tackling the greatest public health crisis in more than a
century. Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, more than 60,000 Service members
have answered our Nation’s call. From building alternate care facilities to manning testing and
screening stations and distributing food and medical supplies, you’ve demonstrated why
Americans place their highest trust in the United States military.You have also been at the forefront of the Department’s support to Operation Warp
Speed. By the end of the year, the American people will have access to millions of doses of life.No matter the challenges or circumstances, I know our military will continue to rise to the
occasion, just as it has done for more than 200 years – innovating, adapting, and overcoming any
obstacle to see our mission through, in the finest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.This is why I am thankful today and every day for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines,
Coast Guardsmen, Space Professionals, and civilians who have dedicated their lives to supporting
and defending the Constitution so that all Americans can enjoy the blessings of this great country.With our deepest gratitude, Kate and I wish you and your families a safe, restful, and
blessed Thanksgiving.Christopher C. Miller
Acting Secretary
