President Donald Trump continued a beloved Thanksgiving tradition on Tuesday as he officially pardoned two North Carolina turkeys in the Rose Garden. The annual event, which dates back decades, brought a festive and lighthearted atmosphere to the White House as the President celebrated the spirit of the holiday season.
The two lucky turkeys, named Corn and Cob, were raised by the Wittenburg family of Walcott, Iowa. The family, who has been raising turkeys for four generations, was chosen to provide the turkeys for this year’s ceremony. Corn and Cob were carefully selected for their size, temperament, and feather quality and have been living in luxury at the Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington, D.C. prior to their big day.
As President Trump stood in the Rose Garden, surrounded by members of his family and White House staff, he praised the turkeys for their strength and resilience. He also took a moment to reflect on the challenges that the country has faced this year, but emphasized the importance of coming together to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.
“Today, we continue a beloved annual tradition as we proudly pardon two magnificent gobblers,” President Trump said. “We have been through a tough year, but we still have so much to be thankful for. And that’s what we are here to celebrate today.”
The tradition of pardoning Thanksgiving turkeys can be traced back to the 1800s, but it wasn’t until 1989 that President George H.W. Bush officially granted the first presidential pardon to a turkey. Since then, every President has continued the tradition, with some even adding their own personal touches. President Trump, for example, joked that he was going to issue a “full pardon” to Corn and Cob, ensuring that they would not only be spared from the Thanksgiving table but also from any future turkey dinners.
The President also took the opportunity to thank the farmers, ranchers, and producers who work tirelessly to provide food for the nation. He highlighted the importance of the American agriculture industry and its role in keeping the country fed during the ongoing pandemic.
“I want to thank all of the incredible farmers, ranchers, and producers who nourish our nation,” President Trump said. “As we gather together this Thanksgiving, we remember the farmers who work long hours to bring food to our tables. They are truly the backbone of our country.”
After the official pardon, Corn and Cob were whisked away to their new home at Iowa State University. There, they will live out the rest of their days in comfort and luxury, serving as ambassadors for the turkey industry. The Wittenburg family also received a special gift from the President – a “Corn” and “Cob” themed corn maze at their farm.
The annual turkey pardon is just one of the many traditions that make Thanksgiving such a special holiday in the United States. It is a time for families and friends to come together, reflect on their blessings, and enjoy a delicious meal. And this year, despite the challenges that the country has faced, President Trump has reminded us all of the importance of gratitude and unity.
In his closing remarks, President Trump wished everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving and encouraged Americans to continue to support each other during these difficult times.
“Let us give thanks for all that we have, and let us boldly face the exciting new frontiers that lie ahead,” he said. “On behalf of Melania and the entire Trump family, I want to wish every American a healthy and very happy Thanksgiving.”
