Obama sends Thanksgiving wishes

President Barack Obama wished the country a happy Thanksgiving on Thursday while acknowledging that war and recession will make the holiday less festive for many Americans.

In a special Thanksgiving address, Obama spoke of the holiday's ability to bring people together in difficult times.

"For centuries, in peace and in war, in prosperity and in adversity, Americans have paused at this time of year to gather with loved ones and give thanks for life’s blessings," he said.

But the president also noted the "empty seats" at many tables this year, "saved for a son or daughter, or husband or wife, stationed in harm’s way."

"And we say a special thanks for the sacrifices those men and women in uniform are making for our safety and freedom, and for all those Americans who enrich the lives of our communities through acts of kindness, generosity and service," he said.

Acknowledging that recession has left many wondering if the American dream "is slipping away," the president emphasized that the country is turning an economic corner thanks to the stimulus package.

"The investments we have made and tough steps we have taken have helped break the back of the recession, and now our economy is finally growing again," he said.