Each December, a powerful tradition unfolds across the United States known as National Wreaths Across America Day—a day dedicated to remembering fallen veterans, honoring those who continue to serve, and teaching future generations the true cost of freedom.
This tradition, recognized annually on a Saturday in December, this year being on December 14th, is a true moment for communities to come together and pay tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.
The day enforces the placement of sponsored wreaths at the graves of veterans with ceremonies taking place at over 3,100 locations nationwide, including the iconic Arlington National Cemetery.
The event, which began as a simple act of remembrance, has grown into a national movement that thrives primarily to make sure that every fallen hero is honored with dignity and respect. Wreaths Across America was founded with the important purpose and mission to “Remember, Honor, Teach.”
On the Wreaths across America website they tell us what their true mission is: “Our Mission: Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.”
Volunteers from all walks of life participate by laying wreaths on the gravesites of military veterans, which usually begins by honoring family members and then appreciating their involvement year after year. It’s a way to pay tribute to veterans who gave everything for the freedoms Americans cherish, while also engaging the next generation in understanding the true importance of those sacrifices.
Foran History teacher, Mr. Austin Cesare states, “The National Wreaths Across America Day is such an important event to honor our veterans, who have given so much for our freedoms we enjoy. I’m so glad to see this event every year. It is so deserving and respectful that our fallen get this recognition.”
In addition to its annual wreath-laying ceremonies, Wreaths Across America serves as an even greater tool, as it helps children and young adults learn about the legacy of service and the value of freedom.
Junior Brendan Auscavitch states, “Putting wreaths on gravestones of veterans is super important because my grandfather served in the army and fought in the Korean War and it’s great to see the veterans being honored every year.”
Volunteers encourage families to bring their children to participate, offering a meaningful way to teach respect for the great sacrifices made by veterans and their families.
Anyone can get involved in different ways, either by volunteering their time on National Wreaths Across America Day or by making a donation to help cover the cost of wreaths for veterans’ graves. The act of laying a wreath may seem small, but for those who participate, it becomes a deeply personal attachment, as many volunteers return each year to honor even more heroes.
Through the efforts of thousands of volunteers and donors, National Wreaths Across America Day not only pays homage to the fallen, but also instills in future generations a great sense of gratitude and respect for the service and sacrifices made to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.
