Turkey, Rations and Hope: Christmas at War for U.S. Troops in WWII

During World War II, when the U.S. forces fought in two global theaters, American troops paused each December to enjoy Christmas dinner. Forces were engaged in battles across two global theaters, and American soldiers took a moment each December to celebrate Christmas dinner. This tradition was upheld by military cooks, supply lines, and commanders who were committed to offering a brief respite from the chaos of combat.

From 1942 to 1944, a substantial percentage of U.S. service members found themselves celebrating Christmas away from their families, facing climates ranging from the sweltering heat of tropical regions to the frigid woodlands of northern Europe. Rationing reflected the circumstances in the United States, where there were frequent shortages of sugar and fresh vegetables. Abroad, the task was even more daunting: providing sustenance for tens of thousands of soldiers stationed on ships, at airfields, and along active front lines.

Turkey emerged as a standout presence, appearing with remarkable consistency. Military planners discovered that sourcing in large quantities and shipping globally were straightforward tasks. Images captured during the Battle of Guadalcanal depict shirtless cooks preparing turkeys and slicing mince pies amidst the sweltering tropical climate. For soldiers involved in a campaign that resulted in the loss of over 7,000 American lives, the meal provided a brief moment of respite from the ongoing conflict.

The menus varied by service and location, yet they adhered to a recognizable pattern. A selection of limited side dishes accompanied the Turkey, while fruit frequently took center stage as its own course, occasionally combined with mayonnaise or presented in gelatin. During Christmas 1944, the 100th Bomb Group of the Eighth Air Force, famously dubbed the “Bloody Hundredth,” celebrated in England with an impressive dessert spread. The table featured an array of treats, including pies, fruitcake, and chocolate-filled Napoleons, all remarkable given the constraints of rationing.

In 1942, troops stationed in Australia during the Pacific campaign enjoyed a festive meal featuring roast Long Island turkey, candied sweet potatoes, and creamed asparagus, capped off with mince pie and Neapolitan ice cream. Similar holiday meals were subsequently documented by the Department of Defense aboard the USS Kasaan Bay and the USS Intrepid.

The Christmas of 1944 marked a somber moment in Europe as German forces initiated the Battle of the Bulge. A striking photograph from Bastogne showcases the leaders of the 101st Airborne Division, featuring Brig. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe, as they gather indoors beside a makeshift tree, while numerous troops take their meals in foxholes, enduring the relentless fire.

Even those held as prisoners of war experienced moments of respite. In late 1944, care packages from the Red Cross made their way to Allied POW camps, delivering essential supplies such as canned turkey, games, and tobacco, just before the onset of forced marches that would commence weeks later.

A 1944 menu preserved at the National World War II Museum encapsulates a sentiment that resonated across various fronts: “It is hoped that the coming year will be a happy and victorious one, restoring peace on earth and goodwill to all.”