In a statement from Government House, Gov. John deJongh Jr. has extended best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all residents of the Virgin Islands.

"Each year, on this day, we pause to give thanks and praise for the many blessings that we enjoy and reflect on the bonds of family and friendship."

DeJongh said this is a time for the community to extend itself to those in need. "Many Virgin Islanders will be opening their hearts, their kitchens and their homes to others. We live in a loving community which has welcomed this holiday as a time to reach out to those in need and the less fortunate among us." Let this Thanksgiving Day be no different, he added.

"On this Thanksgiving Day, we are most grateful for the islands having been spared the ravages of hurricanes and other natural disasters. Despite our challenges confronting us as a people, we are filled with hope and optimism and share the belief that by working together, we will prevail. We also offer our deepest gratitude to the service men and women who are engaged in the theater of war and who are away from their homes and loved ones."

DeJongh has also signed a proclamation declaring Thursday as a National Day of Thanksgiving in the Virgin Islands. "On Nov. 20, President Obama, in recognition of the importance of Thanksgiving Day to U.S. citizens all around the world, proclaimed Nov. 26 as a National Day of Thanksgiving, and asked all of the people of the United States to recognize and celebrate that day, and it is fitting and proper that the Virgin Islands participate in this recognition and celebration of Thanksgiving Day."

The governor said that on this Thanksgiving holiday, "Cecile and I join all Virgin Islanders, and all Americans, in giving thanks for our many blessings."