Senate candidate wishes everyone Happy Thanksgiving

Army Lt. Col. Rick & Melissa Noriega (photo)

State Rep. Rick Noriega, candidate for Senate

Three years ago, I spent Thanksgiving at Camp Phoenix in Afghanistan. While my buddies and I enjoyed turkey and canned ham, nothing could make up for being apart from my family and friends back in Houston.

As we approach this holiday season, Melissa and I have so much to be thankful for, starting with the fact that we'll be spending this holiday together as a family for feast, fellowship and, of course, football.

But this holiday also provides us time to reflect on the friendship and support of friends like you who have joined us in this mission to create a better Texas.

Public service has always been a calling for us. Having your support, encouragement and commitment means the world to us.

As you enjoy this Thanksgiving holiday, we hope you'll also take a moment to extend your support, encouragement and a warm greeting to our men and women in uniform, who are separated from their families as they serve in Iraq and Afghanistan.

An easy way to let them know they're in our thoughts and prayers is to send a text message. You can either click on this link http://www.americasupportsyou.mil or send a text message to 89279 (TXASY) before Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 22.

As one who knows the sense of longing and homesickness when serving abroad, messages from home help our troops get through the more challenging times, and lets them know their sense of service and sacrifice pay tribute to the best of American values.

We wish you and your family a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving.
Warmest Regards,

Rick, Melissa, Alex and Ricky Noriega