Secretary Carter Calls Service Members and Military Spouse on Thanksgiving
Nov. 24, 2016

Defense Secretary Ash Carter today called several U.S. service members taking part in operations around the world, as well as a military spouse, to wish them a Happy Thanksgiving.

Carter expressed his appreciation for their service to the United States and in supporting America’s allies and partners. He also remarked that those who support our military members and their families at home have an important role as well.

In each of the calls, Carter noted that he knows how difficult it is to be separated from loved ones during the holidays and thanked service members and their families for their sacrifice for the nation.

Carter spoke with the following service members:

— Army National Guard Staff Sergeant Edward Roseman, 33, of Coconut Creek, Florida. Roseman is serving in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. As a platoon sergeant, his efforts have been vital to the success of more than 300 security missions.

— Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Mitchell Lander, 30, of Irwin, Pennsylvania. Lander provides imagery analysis in support of operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

— Navy Reservist Lieutenant Kyle Fitzpatrick, 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Fitzpatrick is supporting Operation Inherent Resolve in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

— Air Force Airman First Class Jake Pullen, 19, of Kenosha, Wisconsin. Pullen is deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility where he supports Operation Silent Sentry.

Additionally, Carter and his wife, Stephanie, spoke to Army spouse, Blessing Gallo, who currently serves as a volunteer and mentor to help other spouses manage deployment stress on their families.

Carter said he was very grateful for the opportunity to speak to these extraordinary individuals who are serving their nation and asked that they pass on his best wishes to their colleagues and families as well.