AUSA sponsors unique Thanksgiving celebration

Photo By Sgt. Alexander Neely | More than 300 service members and soldiers attended a Thanksgiving celebration sponsored by the Association of the United States Army at the Seashells Resort in Kuwait Nov. 22, 2012. In the morning, soldiers and service members ate lunch at the Seashell Restaurant, played games on the beach and were treated to a live performance by Bar None, one of the sponsors of the event.  

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

11.22.2012

Story by Spc. Alexander Neely 

12th Public Affairs Detachment   

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – More than 300 service members and soldiers attended a Thanksgiving celebration sponsored by the Association of the United States Army at the Seashells Resort in Kuwait Nov. 22, 2012.

In the morning, soldiers and service members ate lunch at the Seashell Restaurant, played games on the beach and were treated to a live performance by Bar None, one of the sponsors of the event.

“Thanksgiving is a time when Americans want to be with Families and contemplate the things we’re thankful for,” said Ambassador Matthew H. Tueller. “We are delighted that we have a wonderful chapter of the Association of United States Army that is able to sponsor this event at the Seashells Resort to bring some of those troops here to recognize their sacrifice.”

When the music stopped and the games ended, soldiers, service members and event organizers gathered together for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

“Here in Kuwait we’re particularly mindful that we have young U.S. soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen who are serving their country abroad far from their families,” said Tueller, who took time to speak and take pictures with service members and soldiers. “We want to let their families know that we are trying to take care of them while they’re far from their homes.”

Between bites, the eclectic group of individuals mingled with one another, sharing stories and laughter.

“I feel like one of the lucky ones; I was chosen to come to the resort,” said Pfc. Christopher Leggit from 228th Signal Company, 160th Signal Command. “The event really did help me get my mind off missing everyone back home.”

AUSA is a private, non-profit educational organization that supports America's Army – active, National Guard, Reserve, civilians, retirees, government civilians, Wounded Warriors, veterans, and family members. Along with holiday functions, AUSA provides numerous professional development opportunities at a variety of events both local and national.

• Date Taken: 11.22.2012
• Date Posted: 11.27.2012 01:21
• Story ID: 98357
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW