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In remote Alaskan regions, a unique Thanksgiving tradition has emerged: the “Alaska Turkey Bomb.” Esther Keim, an Alaskan native, airdrops frozen turkeys to residents unable to retrieve them themselves during the holiday season.
Keim’s childhood experience of receiving an airdropped turkey during freeze-up inspired her to start this service. She understands the challenges of living in isolated areas with limited access to essentials.
Keim and her pilot, Heidi Hastings, fly low and slow to ensure accurate delivery. This year, they delivered turkeys to 30 families, including 80-year-old Dave Luce, who lives along the Yentna River.
For residents like Luce, the turkey drop brings joy and gratitude. It allows them to celebrate Thanksgiving with a traditional meal despite their remote location.
Keim relies on donations to fund her turkey deliveries and hopes to expand the program into a nonprofit organization to reach more families in need. Her mission is to provide a sense of community and support to those living in rural and off-grid areas of Alaska.