Statement to Employees by Director of the Central Intelligence Agency Mike Hayden on Thanksgiving

November 25, 2008

One of the many things Jeanine and I love about our country is that the holiday season opens with a day of gratitude. Family and friends gather to share a meal and reflect on all the good in their lives. It’s a chance to remember that, despite the strife and difficulty in the world, we have much to be thankful for—first and foremost, the freedom and opportunity we enjoy as Americans.

You, the men and women of CIA, have dedicated yourselves to protecting those gifts and extending their reach. And so, as Thanksgiving approaches, I want to thank each of you on behalf of the entire leadership team. Your hard work, skill, and commitment help keep our nation safe and build a better world.

We are especially grateful to those of you who are far from home, separated from family and working in places of hardship and danger. Your essential service and significant sacrifices are never far from our minds. We hope that you, too, will have some time to enjoy the fellowship of Thanksgiving.

Best wishes to everyone for a safe and happy holiday!

Mike Hayden