HENRICO, V.A. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today released the following statement ahead of Thanksgiving Day.

“Thanksgiving traditions bring Virginia families and friends together each year — filling our homes with familiar voices, scents, and warmth. We gather with loved ones and give thanks for the many blessings in our lives. But for many families across Central Virginia, last year’s gatherings lacked the comforts that have come to represent the holiday season. I know this time of year can be particularly hard for families who have faced financial uncertainty or the loss of a loved one, and my heart is with all my neighbors in the Seventh District who are experiencing empty chairs at the dining room table.

“This year, I hope families across Central Virginia will be able to spend this time together with a little more peace of mind. And as we prepare for our Thanksgiving celebrations, I hope we all take time to remember and thank the thousands of Virginia servicemembers who will not be home for the holidays this year. Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to meet brave U.S. Marines who are serving our country overseas and thank them for their unwavering service to our nation. Whether stationed at home or abroad, our armed forces give us the greatest gift we can receive this holiday season — the guarantee of freedom.

“This Thanksgiving, I am deeply thankful for the privilege of serving Virginia’s Seventh District, and I am immensely grateful to the active duty servicemembers, National Guard soldiers, veterans, and military families that make our communities whole. I am inspired by their sense of civic duty and willingness to sacrifice for their fellow Americans. We are fortunate to live in the United States — and we are just as fortunate to have such dedicated heroes willing to defend our values and the rights afforded to us.”

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