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A reader reminded me yesterday of a beautiful tradition that has been taking place every December for 23 years.
It is National Wreaths Across America Day.
I have written about the event and the organization, Wreaths Across America, which every year organizes and supports the laying of thousands of wreaths at hundreds of cemeteries in all of our 50 states, wherever our veterans rest.
The mission of Wreaths Across America is simple yet noble: “To Remember, Honor, & Teach about the service and sacrifices of our veterans, active military, and their families. We will Never Forget.”
Here is a little bit of the history behind the event and the organization, as told by Amaani Lyle, DoD News, Defense Media Activity:
A Maine businessman, Morrill Worcester donated 5,000 wreaths in 1992 and arranged for trucks to carry them during their pilgrimage from his home state to Arlington National Cemetery. In 2005, Air Force photographer Jim Varhegyi snapped the iconic photo of wreaths in snow, bringing WAA unprecedented attention and acclaim. (Above, courtesy Wreaths Across America)
Later, Congress proclaimed Dec. 13th as “Wreaths Across America Day” and at this year’s event, Morill Worcester placed the two-millionth wreath laid nationwide to honor U.S. Army Pvt. William Christman, the first soldier to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
The organization has since expanded to include more than 1,000 fundraising groups in all 50 states representing more than 900 cemeteries, military memorials and other sites. More than 80 volunteer trucking companies have stepped up to help deliver the wreaths.
Volunteers prepare to unload a truck of wreaths on Wreaths Across America Day in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Dec. 13, 2014. Thousands of volunteers helped place about 700,000 wreaths at the graves of fallen service members as part of the annual event. Photo DOD.
Although the next “Wreaths Across America” is now a year away, it is not too early to learn more about this unique organization and to perhaps sponsor a wreath for next year. Please click here.
Lead photo: Holiday wreaths adorn the graves of fallen service members across Arlington National Cemetery, Va., Dec. 13, 2014.(Photo DOD)
The author is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and a writer.