How U.S. troops are celebrating Thanksgiving overseas

Evacuation Day, a historic holiday in New York, once rivaled Independence Day in popularity, featuring grand parades and celebrations. This commemoration marked the withdrawal of British troops from the city in 1783, but over time, it faded from public consciousness, overshadowed by other holidays such as Thanksgiving and Independence Day.

The U.S. immigration agency has announced a re-examination of green card holders from countries labeled as 'of concern' following the identification of an Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, as the suspect in a shooting incident that critically injured two members of the National Guard near the White House. This decision comes in the wake of heightened security concerns and scrutiny over immigration policies.

The East Wing of the White House is undergoing significant renovations following President Trump's directive to construct a $300 million ballroom, raising questions about the historical integrity of the site. Concerns have been voiced regarding the potential loss of historical elements during this extensive makeover.

The military has secured over 380,000 pounds of Thanksgiving food for American troops stationed globally, including 152,626 pounds of turkey and 792 cases of eggnog, ensuring they can celebrate the holiday with traditional meals. This effort highlights the commitment to maintaining morale among service members during the festive season.

A significant winter storm is forecasted to impact the US Midwest and Great Lakes region over the Thanksgiving holiday, with predictions of six to ten inches of snow in states like Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. This storm coincides with an estimated 82 million Americans traveling for the holiday, leading to numerous flight delays, particularly in northern states.

Thanksgiving traditions in America are evolving as families reconsider their menus and navigate political divides, with a notable increase in takeout options. This shift reflects broader cultural and ideological changes impacting how the holiday is celebrated across the nation.

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured in a targeted shooting incident near the White House in Washington, D.C., on November 26, 2025. The attack occurred close to the Farragut West metro station, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. One of the guardsmen has since died from her injuries, marking a tragic escalation in violence against military personnel in urban areas.

This Thanksgiving season is expected to see record-breaking travel, with 82 million Americans traveling at least 50 miles, but a notable shift is occurring as more travelers choose to stay with friends rather than family or hotels, and there is a decrease in Canadian visitors compared to previous years.