Thanksgiving Day 2009

Dear soldiers,
Our community dinner is today in the Grange Hall of our small town on our small island in the far northwest edge of the United States.

We are so fortunate to be able to gather to enjoy each other’s company, to see old friends. No one has to be alone on Thanksgiving Day in Friday Harbor. I look out the window at the port and a ferry coming to the land.

I am admiring the volunteers who are serving turkey, dressing, potatoes and yams, drinks and dessert. They are bringing cranberry sauce and butter to the tables and taking away dirty plates and cups. They serve for an hour or the whole afternoon. You serve for years.

How grateful we are to you and your efforts on our behalf. Chances are we wouldn’t be able to gather like this with enough food for the community — plenty of food and more — but for the long line of soldiers who have fought to keep this country free.

Thank you for serving us and God bless you, your families and friends and may He protect you all.

Lutie Park
Friday Harbor