Omaha, Neb.— Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement in observance of Thanksgiving Day, which will be celebrated on November 26, 2020:

 “On this Thanksgiving, I reflect on the many blessings and freedoms we have today, and praise God that we live in the greatest country in the world. While this year’s Thanksgiving may look different compared to previous holidays, one thing remains true: no matter where you reside or who you are with, our family, faith, and freedoms remain intact.

“This holiday is special to me and my family, as it is for many Americans. Thanksgiving was my mom’s favorite holiday of the year. She loved to cook the traditional Thanksgiving meal and also enjoyed adding some of our favorite Hungarian dishes. For the fruit portion she would put together pears, pineapples, and cherries in a way that each small plate looked like a turkey. All the kids and grandkids loved that. Even though she passed away 15 years ago, her spirit remains strong within our household. We will always miss her and continue to celebrate her traditions.

 “Every year, I look to the words of President Abraham Lincoln when he gave his 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation. He recognized a torn nation due to civil war and was quick to acknowledge the “blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies,” and recognized that those blessings were “gracious gifts of the Most High God.” President Lincoln encouraged us to turn to our faith, despite the many trials and tribulations that come our way. These timeless words, spoken 157 years ago by one of our nation’s greatest leaders, still ring true today.

 “On this day, and every day, I thank our nation’s law enforcement, first responders, and military. We salute them for defending our nation and sacrificing their time with their loved ones in order to protect, care for, and serve ours. It is because of them that we live in this great country that values freedom, opportunity, and equality under the law.

 “I also thank our medical professionals in Nebraska and across the United States who are working day and night, and who are constantly on the frontlines of this global pandemic. They continue to answer the call to care for the injured and sick, and for that we owe them a debt of gratitude. It is my hope that we remain cautiously optimistic as new medical developments arise.

 “As always, my prayers are with you and your families. I am thankful to have the opportunity to represent you. I wish you all a very blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.”

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