The Yearly Tradition of the President's Turkey Pardon

Every year since 1947, the United States President has the tradition of pardoning a turkey at the National Thanksgiving Turkey Festival. This year, the lucky birds have been named Corn and Cob, bringing a touch of the unexpected with their cheery names. This act is steeped in tradition and symbolism, as the turkey pardon has become an iconic part of American culture.

Pardoned Turkeys: Corn and Cob

This year's pardoned turkeys, Corn and Cob, are set for a unique and special life. Rather than being sent to become part of the holiday feast, these birds will be cared for by the Veterinary School at Iowa State University. It's a fitting tribute to their good fortune, ensuring that they can live out the remainder of their lives in a comfortable and safe environment.

Historical Context and Pardoned Turkeys

While many mistakenly think that the pardoned turkey is only one, the reality is quite different. The tradition of pardoning turkeys has always involved a pair of birds: one male (designated as the tom) and one female (the hen). This year, as in previous years, the pair will be sent to a sanctuary, ensuring they remain safe from the fate of becoming someone's dinner.

A List of Notable Pardons

The tradition of pardoning turkeys began with President Harry S. Truman in 1947. Since then, every serving president has pardoned a pair of turkeys, albeit some years have faced unique circumstances. In recent years, notable pardons include:

Barack Obama: In 2008, Obama pardoned a pair of turkeys and gifted them to a Virginia farm with a food pan-try. In 2009, he pardoned two turkeys, Cheero and Nini, and sent them to a sanctuary in Pennsylvania. Donald Trump: Trump pardoned a family of turkeys in 2017 and again in 2018, but the 2019 pardons were two turkeys named Mildred and Harold, who were sent to a farm in New Jersey. Joe Biden: Similar to his predecessors, Biden pardoned a pair of turkeys in 2021, sending them to the National FFA Organization headquarters in Indiana.

The pardoned turkeys often make headlines and serve as a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of the National Thanksgiving Turkey Festival. Here’s a list of some notable pardoners and the names of the turkeys they pardoned:

Notable Examples of Pardoned Turkeys

Donald Trump: Cob and Corn (2020) Barack Obama: Cheero and Nini (2009), and Mildred and Harold (2019) George W. Bush: Augustine and Rosa (2008), and Hercules and Pyro (2010) George H.W. Bush: Willard and Maggie (1990)

The tradition of pardoning turkeys has also faced its share of criticism. Notably, individuals like Arpaio, Flynn, and D’Souza have incorrectly been referred to in the context of pardoning turkeys, suggesting a confusion between political pardons and turkey pardons. It's crucial to distinguish these two.

Conclusion

The act of pardoning turkeys has remained a tradition that brings smiles and laughter to the nation. This year's pardons, Cob and Corn, will continue in this legacy of goodwill and care. As we look to the future, the tradition of the presidential turkey pardon offers a heartwarming reminder of unity and the festive spirit of the holiday season.

Further Reading and Resources

For more information on the tradition of presidential turkey pardons and related subjects, consider these resources:

Official White House Website: National Thanksgiving Turkey Festival National FFA Organization – National Thanksgiving Turkey Hunt

Understanding the historical context and future outlook of the presidential turkey pardons can be a fascinating and educational topic for those interested in American cultural history. The act of pardoning two turkeys each year is a testament to the enduring traditions of our nation and the annual rekindling of the spirit of Thanksgiving.