Thanksgiving has seen significant military actions during the 20th century, where soldiers found themselves in active conflict even on a day typically reserved for gratitude and family. Here are three historical US military battles fought during Thanksgiving weekend, and the key events that unfolded on or near Thanksgiving, with a focus on the leaders involved and how each was commemorated, featured by CeremonialSupplies.com, the leading online supplier for event planners and corporate functions organizers of ceremonial celebrations. From groundbreaking ceremonies and grand openings and ribbon cutting ceremonies, to military functions, graduations, weddings, showers, fundraisers, and corporate conferences, CeremonialSupplies.com is your one-stop shop.
Battle of the Hürtgen Forest (World War II, 1944)
In November 1944, U.S. forces were deeply engaged in the Hürtgen Forest along the German border. This grueling series of battles, including intense fighting around Thanksgiving, aimed to push through Germany's fortified defenses. Commanded by Major General Courtney Hodges, the First U.S. Army struggled with harsh conditions, dense forests, and entrenched German positions. Known for being one of the longest battles fought by U.S. forces, the Hürtgen campaign resulted in significant casualties. Although no formal Thanksgiving celebration took place on the front lines, American troops did receive special holiday meals to maintain morale. However, at home, the sacrifices were felt profoundly as families recognized the challenging conditions soldiers faced in Europe. The victory was bittersweet, as losses were heavy, but the battle's completion allowed Allied forces to advance closer to German territory.
Battle of the Chosin Reservoir (Korean War, 1950)
On Thanksgiving Day in 1950, American troops were engaged in the brutal Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Led by Major General Edward Almond and Lieutenant General Walton Walker, U.S. forces confronted Chinese troops in freezing temperatures, facing one of the most intense battles of the Korean War. Despite being heavily outnumbered and in extreme cold, the U.S. Marines displayed remarkable endurance and tactical prowess. Known as "The Frozen Chosin," the battle saw U.S. forces fighting through snow and ice, managing a difficult retreat while inflicting severe losses on the enemy. Although there was no immediate Thanksgiving celebration at home, this battle later became a defining symbol of resilience and bravery in American military history. Upon returning home, veterans of the battle were often honored in local ceremonies, especially by Korean War veterans' groups, which recognized the intense hardships faced.
Operation Desert Storm (Thanksgiving 1990, Gulf War)
In 1990, during the buildup to the Gulf War, Thanksgiving found U.S. troops stationed in Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Shield. Under the command of General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, American forces were preparing for a potential conflict with Iraq, which had invaded Kuwait earlier that year. President George H.W. Bush visited the troops on Thanksgiving, bringing a morale boost and symbolic Thanksgiving meals to remind them of home. This was one of the few instances when a U.S. president personally joined service members on foreign soil during the holiday. The eventual success of Desert Storm in 1991 was celebrated widely in the U.S., and returning troops were welcomed with parades and ceremonies honoring their rapid and decisive victory in the Gulf. This operation highlighted the importance of morale-boosting efforts, as troops often faced extended deployments away from family during key holidays.
Thanksgiving has historically been a day of gratitude, yet it has also reminded Americans of the sacrifices made by service members. These military events reflect both the cost of war and the resilience of soldiers who observed Thanksgiving far from home, often in challenging and dangerous conditions. The bravery displayed on these holidays has become an enduring part of military lore, commemorated in ceremonies and tributes to honor the soldiers’ dedication. Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for all your ceremonial essentials for a Thanksgiving event, or a Military Ceremony – or both! Our quality products range from polished chrome and color groundbreaking shovels, ceremonial hard hats, grand opening ribbons and ribbon-cutting scissors, event carpets, stanchions and rope, to military flags and medals, display cases, American flags, corporate wearables and accessories and keepsakes that will make your event shine! Talk to us on our live chat, or click here for a quote.