Next Thursday we celebrate Thanksgiving. This is a good time to look back at the history of our Nation, the first Thanksgiving, and to remember the brotherhood our country was built on. When the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock in December of 1620, they encountered a very severe winter. They had already faced the hardship of a 66-day ocean voyage and lost nearly half of those brave enough to attempt it. The winter would have been even more dreadful, if they had not gotten help from the Wampanoag Indians. This generous tribe provided food, supplies, guidance and survival skills to our Ancestors. Eventually, the Pilgrims managed to stand on their own and produced a bountiful crop in 1621. As an expression of their deep gratitude, their ‘‘thanks,” the Pilgrims and the Indians celebrated the first harvest for three straight days. This was our Nation’s first Thanksgiving. Americans continued to celebrate it in one form or another each year; and, in 1941, Congress sanctioned it as a legal holiday.
Long before Congress sanctioned Thanksgiving as a legal holiday in 1941, it has been a day Americans set aside to reflect on all that we are thankful for in our lives. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to each and every staff member for the professionalism, dedication, hard work and heartfelt caring you bring to these hallowed halls of healing each day. Whether you are a healthcare provider, support staff or volunteer, there are so many that benefit from the skill and compassion of each of you. You should be proud to know you’re making a positive difference in so many lives.
And I’d also like to thank our patients and their families for your faith and trust in our ability to help you heal. Nothing is more sacred than an individual’s health and wellbeing and the fact that you choose the National Naval Medical Center for your care speaks volumes. You are our very reason for being here and it is an honor and privilege to serve you.
As the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq continue, we rise to the occasion and face the challenges of caring for our war wounded. We flawlessly meet their needs and the needs of their families. These great American Heroes are receiving the best care humanly possible and it is our honor to provide it. We are also reminded of the many Americans that have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and this is an excellent day to express a silent thank you to them for their service. And let’s not forget our shipmates that are out in harm’s way so that all Americans can continue to enjoy the freedoms this Nation was built on.
I know that Thanksgiving Day may not be the easiest day to be stuck in a hospital...whether you’re a patient or a provider. If you’re a patient, please know that you are getting the very best medical care available anywhere in the world. If you are a provider, please know you are ensuring world class health care is delivered and that your sacrifice does not go unnoticed.
In closing, I want to reiterate how thankful I am as Commander of the National Naval Medical Center to every single one of you, staff and patients alike, who make up our great team.
Commander sends
Rear Adm. Matthew Nathan
Medical Corps, United States Navy
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