Thankful For Rural America

VILSACK: As we gather around Thanksgiving tables with family and friends I am reminded how blessed we are to have rural America. Rural America provides so much for all of us.
 
 
Our farmers, ranchers and growers are the most productive on earth.  Their work allows us to feed people at home and around the world. It means that American families pay less for their food than the people of any other developed nation. Their work strengthens our economy, with agriculture supporting one in twelve U.S. jobs.
 
 
This year has been marked by a number of disasters stretching from our smallest towns to our biggest cities. America still faces an historic drought, and the recovery continues from Hurricane Sandy. At USDA, we’ll continue doing all we can in support of those who have been affected by these disasters.  

Throughout the holiday season, my family and I will also remember those who struggle to put food on their plate. We’ll give thanks that so many ordinary Americans stand up to fight hunger in their own communities.
 
As always, we will remember those who serve in our nation’s armed forces and that a high proportion of them come from rural America. Many are overseas today, away from their own families, so that all of us can remain safe and free.
 
I wish you and your loved ones a safe happy Thanksgiving and I invite you to join me in giving thanks for the great nation we call home.

I’m Lacy Gray and that’s Washington Ag Today, and from all of us here at the Ag Information Network, Happy Thanksgiving.