More than 200 single soldiers, single parents, and geographical bachelors took part in the annual Thanksgiving feast on Friday afternoon, hosted by Fort Bragg's Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program. Organizers say the goal is to make sure no service member misses out on the holiday spirit.
"It's a very important way to show our soldiers that we actually care about them and we actually hear their concerns," said Tyreek Logan, an MWR BOSS adviser.
The event offered troops a chance to relax, share stories, and connect. Soldiers could also win prizes as part of the celebration.
Army Specialist Lorna Nieves-Sevillano said gatherings like this help boost morale, especially for those stationed far from home.
"We're all missing our families very dearly. Some of us have families that are out of this country or across the country. And so this kind of brings the community together so that, you know, that you're not alone," she said.
Airman First Class Kourtney Ross, a public affairs specialist, said the event brought comfort during what can be a difficult time of year.
"I feel very appreciative and grateful they're doing this. There's no way for me to have holidays right now with my family due to the distance. It is what it is. It feels different not being with my parents and my friends, but I get to work with a new community here," Ross said.
For many, the feast also offered a chance to build connections across branches.
"I just felt that it was a great time to come together and fellowship with another network that was right here. Not with just the Air Force side but with the Army side," said Air Force Supplier David Thomasson.
Platoon Sgt. Kenitza Robles of Alpha Company said the turnout shows how much the soldiers value the effort that goes into the event.
"It makes me very thankful that there's a big turnout for all the soldiers. It shows that the work we put into events, the soldiers really do appreciate it," Robles said.
And of course, no Thanksgiving celebration is complete without the food. For Thomasson, one dish in particular stood out.
"If they have stuffing, we call dressing back home, if they have either, then I am really excited for that. I'm also excited for ham and of course turkey," he said.