Obama gives Liberty, Peace a chance in turkey pardons
- 12 years ago
For this turkey named "Liberty," it was his lucky day.
The 19-week-old, 45-pounder had the good fortune of being pardoned by President Barack Obama --- all part of an annual White House Thanksgiving tradition.
SOUNDBITE: President Barack Obama saying:
"Tomorrow is one of the best days of the year to be an American. It's a day to count our blessings, spend time with the ones we love, and enjoy some good food and some great company. But it's also one of the worst days of the year to be a turkey."
With daughters Sash and Malia standing by, the president made it official.
The turkey's live-saving moment required some preparation.
SOUNDBITE: President Barack Obama saying:
"I'm told that in order to prepare Liberty and Peace for their big day, the students exposed them to loud noises and flash bulbs so that they'd be ready to face the White House press corps."
The president's generosity also extended to another bird named "Peace" -- the alternate for the ceremony. After the holidays, both turkeys will live out their lives comfortably in a custom-made enclosure at a livestock facility in nearby Virginia.
Deborah Gembara, Reuters.
The 19-week-old, 45-pounder had the good fortune of being pardoned by President Barack Obama --- all part of an annual White House Thanksgiving tradition.
SOUNDBITE: President Barack Obama saying:
"Tomorrow is one of the best days of the year to be an American. It's a day to count our blessings, spend time with the ones we love, and enjoy some good food and some great company. But it's also one of the worst days of the year to be a turkey."
With daughters Sash and Malia standing by, the president made it official.
The turkey's live-saving moment required some preparation.
SOUNDBITE: President Barack Obama saying:
"I'm told that in order to prepare Liberty and Peace for their big day, the students exposed them to loud noises and flash bulbs so that they'd be ready to face the White House press corps."
The president's generosity also extended to another bird named "Peace" -- the alternate for the ceremony. After the holidays, both turkeys will live out their lives comfortably in a custom-made enclosure at a livestock facility in nearby Virginia.
Deborah Gembara, Reuters.