But do you know who else contributes to delicious meal and cherished memories? Working mostly behind the scenes, federal employees make sure your holiday goes as smoothly as possible.
Who are these unsung heroes behind Thanksgiving? We should be thankful for the men and women who work at these agencies:
United States Department of Agriculture
USDA food inspectors make sure the turkey and other meats on your table are safe for consumption.
Food and Drug Administration
Bread sold at your neighborhood grocer is safe and fresh, thanks to the FDA, which regulates grocery store bakeries and meat operations. They also make sure sliced ham, milk, cheese, and other refrigerated items are stored at the correct temperatures.
Transportation Security Administration
If you fly anywhere for Thanksgiving, TSA officers make sure you arrive safely by preventing dangerous items from getting onto airplanes.
Department of Transportation
Once you board the plane, the FAA guides it safely to its destination.
If you drive, roads and bridges were built and are maintained by the experts at the Federal Highway Administration.
And the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ensures the safety of the buses and trucks on highway with you.
NASA
Even in inclement weather, your vehicle is less likely to skid thanks to safety grooving developed by NASA.
Defense Department
Need a map? Well, be thankful for the Defense Department that developed GPS technology.
Commerce Department
Don’t forget to check the weather before you head out. The National Weather Service provides up-to-date information on weather systems that could interfere with your Thanksgiving arrangements.
Environment Protection Agency
The EPA makes sure that the water you drink is safe and the air you breathe is clean so you can continue to enjoy and create many more memories with your loved ones.
Department of Labor
Employees at your local grocer who stock the shelves and ring up your purchases work in safe conditions set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Last but not least, your AFGE Family
Thanks to you and your coworkers who join together to be a part of the AFGE family, we have the power to secure better work-life balance. Our collective voice allows us to seek better pay, affordable health insurance, secure retirement, and safe working conditions. We’re thankful for you this Thanksgiving and every day!