Turkey Day hits Holloman

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anthony M. Ward
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  As everyone knows, Thanksgiving is a time to be with family and friends. A time to think back on everything that has happened in the past, whether good or bad. A time to be, well, thankful for everything we have.

This Thanksgiving, many members of Team Holloman will be traveling long distances to spend this unique holiday at the place they call home. They'll do this because it's tradition and for as long as they can remember, they've spent and enjoyed this holiday with their loved ones.

Unfortunately, some members of Team Holloman will not have the chance to return home, and will be spending the holiday in the local area. To make up for this, the Shifting Sands Dining Facility and Raptor's Nest will be hosting Thanksgiving feasts for those spending the holiday here at Holloman.

"This is a chance for the Airmen not able to return home for the holiday to be able to receive the meal they would normally have back home," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jean Magee, 49th Force Support Squadron NCO in charge. "It allows the Airmen without anywhere to go for that day to come here and still receive a Thanksgiving meal."

Airman won't be the only ones allowed to partake in these Thanksgiving meals. These facilities will be open to all active duty service members, retirees, families and the German Air Force.

"Everyone and anyone who has someone visiting will be able to bring them in for the meals," said Magee. "This is sort of like our open house because we don't usually allow just anyone to eat here."
With many expected to attend, much preparation will go into ensuring the meals will be as enjoyable as possible, and give everyone a Thanksgiving to be thankful for.

"We'll start preparing the meal at around 2 a.m.," said Magee. "We decorate everything and make it look really nice with table clothes, flowers and center pieces so that it has a festive feel. We're very excited when the Airmen come in and see how beautiful it looks and light up, thankful that we've prepared this wonderful meal that may not be exactly how mom cooks, but pretty darn close."

So for those remaining here at Holloman for the Thanksgiving holiday, stop by either the Shifting Sands Dining Facility or Raptor's Nest, bring family or a friend to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, and take a moment to think about everything you are thankful for.

Hours for the feasts will be 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shifting Sands Dining Facility, and 10:30 a.m. to 1 p. m. at the Raptor' s Nest. Reservations can be made, though not required, at the Raptor' s Nest by calling 575-572-3611.