The Final State of the Union
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Summary:
The Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden hosted an early Thanksgiving Dinner at the U.S. Naval Observatory for guests from Fisher House, a "home away from home" for families of patients receiving care at military and VA medical centers.
There is nothing like the warmth of home during the holidays. In this spirit, the Vice President and I hosted an early Thanksgiving Dinner last night for servicemembers and their families at our home, the U.S. Naval Observatory. It was the Biden family’s small way of saying thank you to these heroes, and we could not have been more honored to share a table with this group. As my husband said, “Never before has this place been accorded such an honor as tonight. No individual group has walked through that door that has lent more dignity than you.”
Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden host a dinner for the Fisher House at the Naval Observatory Residence, Monday, November 23, 2009. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann) November 23, 2009. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann)
Our guests were from the Fisher House, an organization that provides the comfort and care of a “home away from home” for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers 365 days a year. The houses allow for family members to be close to their loved ones during trying times. I visited the Fisher House at the Walter Reed Medical Center earlier this spring and I was so touched by every person I met and the courage and patriotism of all the residents and families.
Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden host a dinner for the Fisher House at the Naval Observatory Residence, Monday, November 23, 2009. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann) November 23, 2009. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann)
Our entire family knows first-hand the challenges that military families face every day. Our son Beau recently returned from a year-long deployment in Iraq and we are so grateful to have him safely home. However, there are many families who are missing a loved one who is serving abroad or who is recovering from an injury and cannot make it home for the holidays. This year, and every year, we want to thank the many servicemen and women and their families across the globe for their sacrifices.
During the holiday season, enjoy the warmth of your home and consider reaching out to all of those who have given so much for our country. Happy Thanksgiving!
Dr. Jill Biden is the Second Lady of the United States
