Thanksgiving Message
During this season of gratitude, I want to convey how honored and thankful I am to serve alongside all of you: our soldiers, airmen and civilian employees of the New Hampshire National Guard.
In the midst of some of the bitterest fighting of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln officially declared Thanksgiving a national holiday on the last Thursday in November.
“The year that is drawing toward its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies,” begins his proclamation of Oct. 3, 1863. “To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.”
His hope was that on that day of feast and fellowship all of America’s people would pause and offer a word of prayer for those dealing with the loss and suffering of the War Between the States.
On this most cherished of American holidays, I encourage you to reflect on what has gotten our nation through one upheaval after another whether it be war, pandemic, or economic crisis. Just a year ago, the simple act of sitting down with family and friends was viewed as a risky proposition.
The worst of circumstances always seems to bring out the best in us. I saw that every day in each and every one of you. Whether supporting the COVID mission in your communities, the resettlement of Afghan refugees overseas and in the U.S., the security mission at the Southwest Border, or in the routine day-to-day operations here in New Hampshire, your actions made a difference.
I could not be more grateful for your commitment, sacrifice and willingness to serve for the betterment of others.
As we take a pause for a well-deserved holiday reprieve, I want to thank you for being on the team. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families.
Major General David Mikolaities
Adjutant General
New Hampshire National Guard
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