Army leaders honor soldiers with Thanksgiving meal

Hogwarts-themed wait staff, bewitched skies with floating candles and even whole roasted pigs couldn’t scratch the surface of what Fort Sill had in mind for its annual Thanksgiving meal.

Fort Sill Army leaders served a Hogwarts-themed Thanksgiving lunch to the 75th FAB and 31st ADA Brigade around midday Tuesday. They expected the turnout to be about 1,300 soldiers and their families.

“By stepping behind the serving line, leaders demonstrate their gratitude for the sacrifices soldiers make every day and ensure that, even while away from home, our soldiers feel connected to the values and traditions that unite us and taking care of people,” Lt. Col. John Peterson, Director of FCoE Commander’s Planning Group said.

There were many interesting choices to choose from; from the traditional turkey, corn, deviled eggs and stuffing; to unexpected dishes including crab legs, roast beef and even a whole roasted pig.

E4 Spc. Ian Hayes said the meal brings a lot to the community.

“To see officers that you don’t usually see coming to serve you, it means a lot because you don’t see them a bit,” Hayes said.

Originally from Seattle, Wash., Hayes was recently stationed in Korea until he came to Fort Sill 11 months ago.

The holidays are a time for everyone to get together, even when they don’t usually see each other. Thanksgiving is no different.

“Most lower enlisted, they don’t usually work directly with officers,” Hayes said. “It’s a good connection to have with the lower enlisted and feeding them, especially on Thanksgiving and a special holiday like this is very good.”

Hayes wasn’t worried about missing his family though.

“It’s not really hard at all,” Hayes said. “I love my family. I got to see them earlier, so I kind of talked to them already, but I don’t really see a big issue per se than a lot of other people would see.”

Hayes’ enjoyed all of the food, especially the ham and corn.

“I don’t usually eat a lot of pork, but I love the ham,” Hayes said. “I’ve always liked corn since i was younger. For Thanksgiving, I always used to say ‘Oh, corn is my favorite.’”

All in all, Hayes had a memorable time.

“It’s Thanksgiving,” Hayes said. “I love it, and I get to eat a lot of food. To be able to come to some place like this and see absolutely spectacular leadership, that means a lot to me. It makes me want to stay in the Army.”