Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for family togetherness, but when you are a Sailor deployed at sea, that simply is not possible. It does not mean, however, that there is no reason to celebrate the holiday.

Sailors and Marines aboard the USS Harry S. Truman may have been away from their loved ones during Thanksgiving, but they nevertheless celebrated with their “other” family – their shipmates.

There was a Thanksgiving feast laid out on the forward and aft mess decks, complete with turkey, stuffing, and pies. There were special events that included an inter-faith service and an ice cream social.

Cmdr. Bill Bulis shared: “If I can’t be with my family, there’s not anyone else I’d rather spend this Thanksgiving with… I’m thankful for everybody who contributes to our mission every day. Helping out today gives me a chance to give back to the crew and thank them for the work they do.”