A Gesture of Gratitude

On Thursday, November 27, 2003 President George W. Bush made a surprise visit to Iraq so that he could thank U.S. troops for defending the American people from danger. The President served Thanksgiving dinner to 600 soldiers. Speaking of the soldiers far from their home, he said, “It’s got to be lonely for them. I thought it was important to send that message, that we care for them.”  The visit was well received by the battle-worn soldiers, but it also surprised the President’s family, who were expecting him at his ranch in Texas.