In the 75th year of a tradition established in 1947 by President Harry Truman, President Biden granted a Presidential Pardon to two turkeys raised by Ronnie Parker, Chairman of the National Turkey Federation, on his farm in Monroe, NC. The Toms named Chocolate and Chip, weighing in at 47 pounds, were transported to Washington for the White House event.
In his address, President Biden urged Americans to remember to feel and express gratitude during the holiday and to remember the reason for Thanksgiving.
The reprieved Toms will be housed at the North Carolina State University, Prestage Department of Poultry Science Farm where they will live out their remaining lifespan.
The annual turkey pardon reminds Americans of the importance of agriculture and the contribution of poultry to the Nation’s food supply.