How Soldiers Celebrated Thanksgiving During WWII

During World War II, Thanksgiving was a bittersweet occasion for American soldiers. Far from home, they found comfort in traditional meals and camaraderie, even as they faced the challenges of war. U.S. military officials worked hard to bring a taste of home to the frontlines, ensuring soldiers could celebrate the holiday with some semblance of normalcy.

In 1943, two liberty ships packed with Thanksgiving supplies made their way across the Atlantic, delivering turkeys, trimmings, cranberry sauce, and pies to soldiers stationed in Europe, the Pacific, and other theaters of war. While naval personnel aboard ships enjoyed well-prepared meals year-round, Thanksgiving on the ground and in the air offered a rare treat for troops accustomed to canned C- or K-rations.

At airbases and mess halls across the globe, troops lined up eagerly for their holiday feast. For many, these meals were a stark contrast to their daily rations, providing a reminder of home and the country they were fighting to protect.

The generosity of the American military wasn’t lost on others. A British soldier who crash-landed in Italy on Thanksgiving described his amazement at being served roast turkey, fresh vegetables, and white bread—luxuries he hadn’t seen since the war began. Similarly, a young British boy visiting an American airfield in England marveled at the abundance of food, comparing it to an early Christmas celebration.

In Norfolk, England, U.S. troops even hand-picked live turkeys from a local farm for their holiday dinner. These efforts highlighted the lengths to which military leaders went to ensure soldiers had a memorable meal, even in the midst of war.

Despite these gestures, Thanksgiving wasn’t without its somber moments. Soldiers deeply missed their families, and the holiday underscored the sacrifices they were making. President Franklin D. Roosevelt acknowledged this in his 1943 Thanksgiving address, expressing gratitude for the progress made toward victory and urging Americans to dedicate themselves to the cause of freedom and brotherhood.

For many soldiers, the shared meal was more than just sustenance; it was a brief escape from the realities of war and a chance to bond with their fellow troops. Thanksgiving during WWII symbolized resilience, unity, and hope for a brighter future—a tradition carried on by the brave men and women who served on the frontlines.

Though far from home, these soldiers proved that gratitude and the spirit of Thanksgiving could endure even in the most challenging times.