Fort Jackson Soldiers Get a Head-Start on Turkey Holiday

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FORT JACKSON, S.C. (AP) – Hundreds of soldiers at Fort Jackson are getting their Thanksgiving turkey a day early at the Army’s largest training post.

Fort Jackson officials say the feast begins Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the installation outside Columbia, South Carolina.

The soldiers in basic and advanced training are being treated to more than 2,600 pounds of turkey, 2,300 pounds of ham and more than 1,000 pies. Eggnog, dressing, cranberry sauce and giblet gravy are also included.

Other soldiers will share in the repast on the traditional Thursday holiday, but the early start allows some trainers and soldiers to spend the holiday with their families.

Following a long-time Army tradition, the meal is being served by the soldiers’ commanders and the senior non-commissioned officers.