While there were many celebrations before, in 1789, George Washington signed an official proclamation entitled “General Thanksgiving” which called for a “day of public thanksgiving and prayer.”
Since then, our nation has observed this day as a time to give thanks for the harvest and express gratitude for the blessings in your life. It’s about spending time with your family and loved ones. It’s about giving back and giving thanks.
This Thanksgiving I will be saying a special prayer for the brave men and women who are serving our nation overseas in the Armed Forces. They cannot be with their families and friends here in the States, but they can be in our thoughts and prayers. Our troops deserve our highest support as they literally put their lives on the line for our freedom.
As we enter the holiday season, let’s all try to reach out to be supportive of our military and their families.
Rep. Phil Roe represents Tennessee’s First Congressional District.