JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — It's an annual tradition at Naval Station Mayport where those who are currently serving, along with those who have retired, come together for a Thanksgiving meal to catch up with old friends.
First Coast News spoke to a retired Navy veteran who told us he's been coming out here for years. James Maser gets to catch up with his friends from different branches of the military but also shares his experience and stories with younger sailors.
"It's a super thing the Navy does," said Maser.
Maser served our country for 26 years. He retired in 1987 and says every year he and his wife look forward to coming out to Naval Station Mayport for their annual Thanksgiving Day meal.
"We love it. No prep, no clean up, we go home, snooze and watch football," Maser said.
This meal wouldn't be possible without people like Commanding Officer Brian Binder who helps coordinate this massive meal.
"This is what my family talk about as we lead up to Thanksgiving," said Binder.
Binder says he and his family are now pros at serving so many people and he says it's a tremendous honor. And while he's happy to serve his fellow sailors and those who are retired, he says we can't forget those who are deployed.
"All we can say is thank you for your service and thank you to the family back home for doing what you do." he said.