SAN ANTONIO — For more than 50 years, Operation Home Cooking has been a cherished tradition that forges connections between the San Antonio community and the nation’s newest military recruits.

Col. Bill Ackman, who leads the 737th Training Group at JBSA-Lackland, emphasizes the program’s role in reinforcing a vital relationship crucial to the base’s operations.

“It truly strengthens the bond between the community and our training mission here at Lackland,” Ackman noted. “We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from our community.”

This year, a total of 708 eager trainees awaited the chance to be welcomed by 289 families, ready to host them for a Thanksgiving celebration.

“It’s outstanding on both sides,” Ackman added. “The trainees love a little bit of a break. Understandably missing their families during this time. They have one more week before they graduate, but this is a nice opportunity for them to reconnect with what the outside world is like.”

What better opportunity than to share stories over a special holiday meal?

For five years, Nicole Caldwell and her family have opened their doors to trainees through Operation Home Cooking.

“Total, we’ve hosted 46 — 29 with the Army and 17 with the Air Force,” Caldwell said.

She says the connections last far beyond Thanksgiving.

“I’ll always get messages from somebody: ‘Hey, I remember that year I was away from home, and your family took care of me. I just want to thank you for doing that.’”

For trainee Logan Jenkins, the experience is especially meaningful.

“I want them to be a part of my family now because this is very special,” he said.

Home for Jenkins is Ohio but what he’s discovered here in Texas is that sometimes the place you never expected becomes the one that feels most like where you’re meant to be.

“It’s been a great Thanksgiving even though I’m away from home,” Jenkins said. “It’s been so nice to get away for a little bit and actually feel normal again.”

In the end, a home away from home isn’t a place — it’s a feeling that follows you.

“I’m super excited to get to know this family,” Jenkins said.