Wreaths Across America Ceremony

Last Saturday was the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at select cemeteries, and I attended the one at Creekside Cemetery in Churchville NY. Here is a photo of a member of one of the military branches, and a Girl Scout volunteer, placing a wreath on a stand.

Wreaths Across America (WAA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and remembering U.S. military veterans by organizing wreath-laying ceremonies at veterans' cemeteries and memorial sites. Its mission is to remember the sacrifices of fallen veterans, honor those who have served, and teach younger generations about the value of freedom and the sacrifices made to preserve it. The organization is best known for its annual event in December, National Wreaths Across America Day, where volunteers place wreaths on the graves of veterans at Arlington National Cemetery and thousands of other locations across the United States and internationally. This grassroots effort brings together communities, schools, military groups, and civic organizations to show gratitude and respect.

WAA began in 1992 when Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Maine, donated surplus wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery. In 2007, the movement grew into a national initiative with the establishment of Wreaths Across America as a nonprofit organization. The group collaborates with local chapters, schools, and veterans' organizations to sponsor wreaths and coordinate events, relying on contributions from individuals and businesses to fund the wreaths and logistics.

For more information please check out www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.