President Trump is bringing back the spirit of the holidays to the White House, and let me tell you, it’s a welcome return. After years of neglect and cold, lifeless ceremonies under the last administration, we’re finally seeing the White House come alive again with real American tradition. As a veteran, I know the importance of morale and keeping our values strong, especially during the holidays. This week, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are leading the way, kicking off Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations with the kind of pride and patriotism we’ve been missing.
On Tuesday, the President and First Lady will take part in the classic turkey pardon ceremony in the Rose Garden. For those not familiar, it’s a lighthearted American tradition where two turkeys are spared from the Thanksgiving table. Sure, it’s symbolic, but it reminds us that even in tough times, we can laugh a little and come together. And under President Trump, that’s exactly what this country is doing—coming back together.
Melania Trump, with her usual class and grace, invited the public to help name the turkeys through social media, showing once again that the Trump family values everyday Americans and wants them involved. This isn’t just some photo op—it’s about restoring joy and connection between the White House and the people it serves.
And it’s not just about the turkeys. The First Lady is also welcoming this year’s official White House Christmas tree. This Fraser fir, grown by Rex and Jessica Korson of Michigan, is a symbol of hard work, family, and faith—the very foundation of this country. The Korson family earned the honor by winning the National Tree Contest, proving once again that excellence and tradition are still rewarded in Trump’s America.
Now let me tell you something as a man who served this country. These traditions matter. They may seem small to some, but they’re part of the fabric that holds this nation together. When you’ve spent a holiday overseas, away from your family, you come to appreciate how meaningful it is to see the White House celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas with honor and respect. Under President Trump, we’re seeing a White House that doesn’t apologize for being American. It doesn’t hide the nativity scene or downplay Thanksgiving as just another day off. It celebrates our culture, our values, and our faith.
This stands in stark contrast to what we’ve seen in recent years. The previous administration treated these holidays like a burden, often stripping away the deeper meaning to avoid offending some imaginary group. But Trump doesn’t play that game. He knows who he’s serving—the American people. The real ones. The ones who work hard, raise families, go to church, and love their country.
And let’s not overlook the symbolism of the Christmas tree coming from Michigan—a state that’s seen its share of economic hardship but is now on the rebound thanks to strong leadership and a renewed focus on American industry. President Trump believes in Main Street, not Wall Street, and this tree is a reminder that America’s strength comes from its heartland.
As we head into this holiday season, it’s good to know we have a President who cares about more than just politics. He cares about tradition, about family, about faith, and about freedom. Whether it’s pardoning a turkey or lighting the Christmas tree, these acts remind us of who we are and what we stand for.
So from one veteran to all of you—enjoy these moments. Be proud of your country. Be thankful we have a leader in the White House who doesn’t back down, who honors our past, and who’s fighting for our future. God bless President Trump, and God bless the United States of America.
