Congressman Mike Pence today released the following Thanksgiving message:

"Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends, to remember those in need and to acknowledge the blessings of God.

“As we gather around the table, let us give thanks for the grace in our lives; our families and our friends. My wife and children are everything to me and the time we spend together is His greatest gift. Cherish the time with your family and friends.

“Let us also give thanks for our freedoms and those at home and abroad who defend them. As I saw firsthand this week in my visit to Afghanistan, America is blessed with the finest military in the world; men and women of character and courage. Let's remember and give thanks for our soldiers and their families, especially the fallen, during this special time for our family.

“As we give thanks for our blessings, let us also remember and take action to help those in need. We live in trying times for many American families. Many Thanksgiving tables would be barren without the generosity of neighbors and communities of faith. As we make preparations for our table, let us be generous in giving time and treasure to help those struggling in these difficult times.

“From the Pilgrims' trials to the sacrifice of our Revolutionary forefathers; from the great Civil War to the Great World Wars; from the Depression of the 1930's to the economic struggles of today, the American people faced challenges much greater than we face today. In these challenging times, let us rededicate ourselves to meet these time with the same faith, perseverence, generosity and thanksgiving as they did.

“Thank you for the honor of serving you in Washington, D.C. It is the greatest honor of my life to represent Indiana in our nation's Capitol. Happy Thanksgiving.”

Mike Pence