Volunteering your time to a military family is a great way to show you care. Offer childcare, to run errands, or simply lend an ear, allowing the family to recharge. What are other ways you’ve supported a military family?
How does your family incorporate your military experiences as part of your holiday celebrations?
There are so many reasons to celebrate an “attitude of gratitude” this Thanksgiving. Thank you for being a part of our community!
Tell us - what are you grateful this holiday?
After President Barack Obama pardoned Tater and Tot, the final two turkeys of his presidency, he had another engagement to attend.
The Obama family, including t...he First Lady and daughter, Sasha, as well as members of Mrs. Obama’s family; arrived at the Armed Forces Retirement Home-Washington, where they were greeted by COO, Dr. Tim Kangas and Executive Officer Charles Hollings.
The First Family has a tradition of volunteering. Last year, on Thanksgiving eve, they served homeless veterans. This year, AFRH-W residents (who all served in the military) were humbled by the Presidential visit during their dinner.
Resident Catherine Deitch, who served in the Army during WWII said, “It’s such a thrill to see President Obama. I’ll relive this memory when I’m alone in my room!”
AFRH-W is home to over four hundred veterans. Staff and residents welcomed the Obamas with warm Thanksgiving greetings.
The President rolled up his sleeves, and spent over an hour serving up hearty portions of turkey, and taking the time to thank each resident for their service. Residents also enjoyed sides of dressing and sweet potatoes served by the rest of the family.
After their departure, residents were all a buzz of how gracious they were to have met a sitting president in their lifetime. “It was a once in a lifetime experience!,” said Vietnam vet Ernest Janes.
Located on a 273-acre campus less than five miles from the White House, AFRH-W holds a unique place in American History. President Lincoln’s Cottage, where Abraham Lincoln (who proclaimed Thanksgiving a holiday) penned the Emancipation Proclamation, sits on the grounds of the Home.
Since the 1800’s the organization has provided supportive care and shared camaraderie to eligible veterans, at two locations: Washington, DC and Gulfport, Miss. More information is available at www.afrh.gov.
Rebecca Newton, AFRH-W Public Affairs
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Show a military spouse that you appreciate the work they do with a care package made just for them. What are some of your favorite gifts as a military spouse?
Military Family Month is a time to show gratitude for military families. What are some ways people have shown their appreciation to you?
Learn how USPS makes customs and shipping easier for military packages, with free boxes and more—and plan now to send the love! Learn more: https://youtu.be/j6C1QhShVA0
It’s Military Family Month! Share this and help us celebrate the strength, resilience and togetherness of military families.
Military families have a special kind of resilience that can turn “extraordinary” into “everyday.” Share if you agree. From the Home of the Chairman, Ellyn Dunford
- Government Organization