On Thanksgiving morning, Joe and Jill Biden released a video wishing America a happy holiday, especially sending appreciation to service members and honoring lives lost during the pandemic.
“Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. This is always a special time in America. But this year, the blessings of Thanksgiving are especially meaningful,” the president said to begin the video.
“After being apart last year, we have a new appreciation for those little moments we can’t plan or replicate. The music of laughter in a warm, full kitchen, the thump of small feet making big sounds, the circle of faces crowded around our dining room table, glowing in the candlelight,” the first lady continued.
As Commander in Chief, Biden said he is especially grateful for service members and their families for the sacrifices to the country.
The Bidens also addressed how celebrations may look different this year due to the pandemic.
“As we give thanks for what we have, we also keep in our hearts those who we lost, and those who have lost so much. And those who have an empty seat at their kitchen table or their dining room table this year because of this virus or another cruel twist of fate or accident. We pray for them,” the president said.
The Bidens said that America makes them proud to serve as president and first lady every day.
“As Joe and I have traveled this year we have seen him been so inspired by the unbreakable threads that unite us all: Family and faith, kindness and compassion, a love for this country we call home,” Jill said.
Soon after the video was released to Twitter, the president called Al Roker at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The anchor, who is traveling around the parade showing the highlights, picked up the call from the president and asked what his message was for the American people.
“My message is after two years, we’re back, America’s back. There’s nothing we’re unable to overcome, Al and you’re one of the reasons for that, pal. You’re always up, you’re always rooting,” Biden said.
“I’m waiting for Santa,” he added, laughing. “Wish we were there with you, Al.”
The phone call was short and as it ended, Roker joked asking how Biden got his phone number.
“Well, he’s the president of the United States, I guess he can do that,” Roker said.
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