My parents divorced when I was 5 years old. And, as a result, every holiday I can remember was spent scurrying from one family event to another, barely sticking around long enough to catch my breath before I was off to the next one.

When I left home for the Navy, I hoped those days would come to end. Little did I know the hustle, bustle and constant travel were probably the most “normal” part of my formative years.

My first Thanksgiving away from home was spent in boot camp. I wasn’t far enough along in my training to qualify for the USO’s “Adopt-a-Sailor” program, but I got to take part in it a few weeks later for Christmas.