Liberty and Bell can count their lucky stars they won’t be featured on any Thanksgiving table this year.
The pair of turkeys was pardoned at the White House Monday as part of the American Thanksgiving tradition, which goes back generations.
And, U.S. President Joe Biden granted Liberty and Bell stays of execution on the South Lawn as he also celebrated his 81st birthday.
“These birds have a new appreciation for the words, ‘Let freedom ring,’” Biden told onlookers, including children, staff and other officials.
Liberty weighs 42.5 pounds, and Bell tips the scale at 42.1 pounds.
“That’s a big bird, man. I’m impressed,” Biden said during the ceremony. “I hereby pardon Liberty and Bell. Congratulations, birds.”
Liberty and Bell hatched in July birds and were raised by Jennie-O in Willmar, Minnesota.
Steve Lykken, National Turkey Federation, told media the birds were chosen for their extroverted behaviour and were prepped for the sights and sounds of the ceremony.
The birds, he said, were “absolutely ready for prime time.”
