[November 28, 2019] On occasion, I provide a special message for our troops, especially for those deployed overseas and in harm’s way. Two days ago I attended an early-morning Prayer Breakfast in the small town where I live. Those in attendance had one message – be united – and in doing so we will be the guiding light for those that are lost and we will bring fear into the hearts of those who are evil.
A Thanksgiving Message:
In 1777, during our War of Independence, the Continental Congress set aside a day for thanksgiving and praise for our victory at the battle of Saratoga. It was the first time all the colonies took part in such an event on the same day. The following year, upon news that France was coming to our aid, George Washington at Valley Forge prescribed a special day of thanksgiving. Later, as our first President, he responded to a Congressional petition by declaring Thursday, November 26, 1789, the first Thanksgiving Day of the United States of America.
Abraham Lincoln, even in the midst of the U.S. Civil War, enjoined his countrymen to be mindful of their many blessings, cautioning them not to forget “the source from which they come,” that they are “the gracious gifts of the Most High God…”
Today, even as the world emerges from a period of strategic and economic atrophy, we remain a free nation, guarded by the dedication, loyalty, honorable service, and courage of our U.S. military. Let us take heart from the noble example of our first President and our military and let us ever be mindful of the faith and spiritual values that have made our Nation great and that alone can keep us great.
As this special holiday draws near, I want to extend my gratitude to the entire U.S. Military for their work to keep our country strong and secure. Whether you are in uniform or a civilian, whether deployed abroad or stationed here at home, whether retired, family member, or supporter of our troops, it is your service and commitment that allows Americans to enjoy the blessings of Thanksgiving. Your strength, selflessness, and patriotism are deeply appreciated and we are very thankful for your commitment to our country.
Herein are an old Soldier’s thoughts that express the challenge of the warrior and the spirit of our nation:
If the duty and service to my country and its people are the fires of a forge…. then I am the hardened steel of the sharpest sword that is wielded by our leaders as they use and sacrifice the few to protect the many from the evil that would engulf us all…. I have stood the line…. the line between evil and the ugly violence they use…. I have done my duty without reservation, and bore witness to the sacrifice of those that stood the line with me…. the fires of this forge have made me the man that stands before you …. may you only see the good in me, may you only feel the warmth of the protection I provide, you may only feel the safety that comes from an old battle-hardened warrior…. but below the surface there is another man…. there is a fire, unlike the heat of any forge…. a fierce, fiery determination of will that is the face inspiration and strength to our Soldiers and absolute terror to our enemies…. the heat of this internal fire, has cost me everything that has ever been dear to me….To the Warriors, the ones who came home but are still in a fight for their lives…. From the battlefields of freedom and liberty to your safe, secure, and free living-rooms, may God give you the strength to fight the fight, to never let others take your freedom and your liberty, to have the courage to lead where ever you are!
It is in such a spirit that I now invite us all to take part again in this beautiful tradition with its roots deep in our history and deeper still in our hearts.
God Bless America and its allies! Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!
—————-
Note: Remember that being a leader means being selfless. That is the core of leadership. https://www.theleadermaker.com/leaders-thanksgiving-day/
I missed your post yesterday (having a great Thanksgiving Day with family) but wanted to say, thanks! Great job again, Gen. Satterfield for a truthful and needed message.
Thanks Dale, I was about to write the same thing. We’ve had several exceptional articles over the past few months and it helps drive me to be a better person/leader/family-member!
Great website, Mr. Satterfield. I’m new but like what I see. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.
Hi Tom, most folks here refer to him as Gen. Satterfield but ultimately it’s your preference.
Welcome to my leadership blog. Comment anytime you would like. Just be respectful to others in the comment section.
Thank you Gen. Satterfield. I’m sure I’ll be a positive addition to your site.
I’m thankful for the pro-democratic movements across the world. I’m thankful that people realize that being free is not free but requires great sacrifice. Look to support the free citizens of Iran and Hong Kong.
Here’s the latest: “China accuses US of ‘sinister intentions’ after Trump signs bills supporting Hong Kong protesters”
https://www.cnbc.com/2019/11/28/china-condemns-us-bills-supporting-hong-kong-protesters.html
On the other hand, the USA has pandering politicians. No one should be thankful for them.
“Pete Buttigieg coming to Rev. Barber’s church as Democrats compete for black voters” https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article237748079.html
We should support freedom anywhere; unlike past Pres Obama who consciously decried their efforts and shunned them.
Great article today. I will also be joining my family later today for a huge dinner. I am thankful for all my family and friends who are first responders.
Yes, and a very special comment by “an old soldier.”
Thanks General Satterfield for the brief history lesson on Thanksgiving and our founding father’s view of how we should “see” our lives. ?
Happy Thanksgiving all. I have at least 20 family members coming over to my house later this morning so I will be brief. I enjoy reading the comments section and learning about leadership and all those things that go into being a BETTER PERSON. Plenty of examples, looking at our politicians, on how NOT to be a good person or good leader.
Good point, Harry. I’m working today but when I get off work, I’ll be taking my family to my mother’s home for a big spread of food and drink.
While today may be an original American holiday (see Ken’s comment below), it remains one of those that evolve easily from the Christian traditions of our ancestry. Most Western nations have followed this philosophical pattern for over a thousand years. Happy Thanksgiving.
I’ll be spending my time today with family. Lynn, you are spot-on with this comment. Today, we’ve seemed to have drifted away from the values that made us great.
Hi folks, I am new to this leader blog and love it. Thank you Ms Pitts for your comment.
Welcome aboard Dead Pool Guy!
Loved the message and also your Daily Favorites section. Well constructed and educational. Keep up the great work you are doing here for the rest of us.
Thank you Gen. Satterfield for this message on a very American holiday.
Yes, and to you too Eric and all those who come here to learn and be entertained with Gen. Satterfield’s leadership writing.
Happy Thanksgiving to you Army Captain and to all our service men and women.
I agree. Thanks for your service, Army Cpt.