Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest travel periods in the United States. An estimated 50.3 million Americans will flock to airport terminals and busy stretches of highways to head home to their families.

For 60 Sailors and Marines stationed on a remote base in Okinawa, Japan they find themselves spending the holiday a little differently.

White Beach Naval Facility is tucked away on the Katsuren peninsula on the island of Okinawa. The small base is home to the headquarters of Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76. There is no galley or commissary within a 30 minute driving distance.

It takes a village to bring together a feast for a staff of 60 service members who find themselves away from loved ones for yet another holiday while serving abroad.

Despite the obstacles that may stand in the way of a traditional Thanksgiving meal at home, these Sailors and Marines joined together to prepare a potluck, build on bonds, and honor an American tradition of giving thanks.

After completing many major exercises, certifications, and multiple deployments together throughout the year, the staff seized the opportunity to show their gratitude to another for their service and support in making these accomplishments come to fruition.

"It was really important for us to bring it in as a family," said Capt. Sean McLaren, chief of staff, CTF 76. "Even though our shipmates are a different sort of family, it was nice for us to share a meal. We've had a busy year so it was nice to just relax, eat together and enjoy each other's company."

CTF 76 is comprised of Sailors and Marines from every corner of the country, including many proud immigrants who serve our nation too. Thanksgiving, after all, marked the beginning of a new formed family and a nation of immigrants. What better way to highlight the history of the holiday and the unity of different cultures, than by doing just the same some 396 years later.

With backgrounds from Mexico, Korea, Jamaica and Germany, just to name a few, the spread reflected what each of them brings to the table on a daily basis: a taste and appreciation for someone else's culture

"Gyoza, enchiladas, and collard greens; there was a full spread and it really shows the diversity of the staff," said Chief Personnel Specialist Missi-Ann James. "The food was great and it was a nice team-building event."

Thanksgiving, however, is more than a meal. It's coming together to give thanks and show your appreciation for the harvest of your hard work and the love of your tribe. For CTF 76, the proverbial cornucopia came packed with camaraderie, companionship, and a sense of community.

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