Thanksgiving Day Proclmation from November 12, 1981

Interesting note--The National Turkey Federation has been supplying the White House turkeys since 1947.  Although the first sparing of the turkey was done by Abraham Lincoln for the Christmas, John F. Kennedy is credited with sparing the first Thanksgiving Day turkey.  Kennedy did not "pardon" the bird, the credit for the use of the term "padon" in reference to a turkey was by Ronald Reagan in 1987.  George H. W. Bush was the first to issue an official presidential pardon in 1989.  

Barack H. Obama has pardoned "Courage" and the bird (along with an alternate) will fly first class to Disneyland.  (No YouTube video was found of "Courage" stating it wanted "to go Disneyland" could be found.)  Reagan was a bit more practical.  In 1981, on receiving a Tom Turkey from the National Turkey Federation, President Reagan was asked what he's going to do with Tom.  "Eat him," said Mr. Reagan straightforwardly. Pass the stuffing...Happy Thanksgiving!



Proclamation 4883. November 12, 1981

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, A PROCLAMATION



America has much for which to be thankful. The unequaled freedom enjoyed by our citizens has provided a harvest of plenty to this nation throughout its history.  In keeping with America’s heritage, one day each year is set aside for giving thanks to god for all of His blessings.


On this day of thanksgiving, it is appropriate that we recall the first thanksgiving, celebrated in the autumn of 1621. After surviving a bitter winter, the Pilgrims planted and harvested a bountiful crop. After the harvest they gathered their families together and joined in celebration and prayer with the native Americans who had taught them so much. Clearly our forefathers were thankful not only for the material well-being of their harvest but for this abundance of goodwill as well.


In this spirit, Thanksgiving has become a day when Americans extend a helping hand to the less fortunate. Long before there was a government welfare program, this spirit of voluntary giving was ingrained in the American character.  Americans have always understand that, truly, one must give in order to receive.


This should be a day of giving as well as a day of thanks.  As we celebrate Thanksgiving in 1981, we should reflect on the full meaning of this day as we enjoy the fellowship that is so much a part of the holiday festivities. Searching our hearts, we should ask what we can do as individuals to demonstrate our gratitude to God for all He has done. Such reflection can only add to the significance of this precious day of remembrance.


Let us recommit ourselves to that devotion to God and family that has played such an important role in making this a great Nation, and which will be needed as a source of strength if we are to remain a great people.




NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Thursday, November 26, 1981, as Thanksgiving Day.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of November, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and sixth.