Something To Be Thankful For

Throughout the  many turkey days in my life, my family has never had everyone go around the table and say what they are thankful for.  I'm not sure why exactly, it just never became a tradition.  As I get older ( I know I'm only 26) I start thinking back on all the different thanksgivings I have had.  The one that sticks out the most would have to be

 Thanksgiving 2004.  I was 20 years old and in the middle of Fallujah, Iraq.  While on a routine EOD (Explosives Ordnance Disposal) mission we went to a small base within the city.  We had some down time so I pulled out my Turkey and Mashed potatoes MRE I had been saving.  By far one of the worst meals in the whole lot!  While eating in my truck in a protected area some bullets are impacting the buildings around us.  We were perfectly safe where we were, however there were two Marines that died just a block away from me.  I still wonder who they were and how their families were going to ever enjoy another Thanksgiving.  It's days like that that make me thankful I made it home safely.  No matter where I am for Thanksgiving I will always remember those Marines I never knew.