WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA – Saturday, December 12, 2024
This annual celebration, Wreaths Across America started in 1992 when someone in Maine took the time to place a wreath on the grave of a fallen veteran. For several years a small ceremony was held in Arlington National Cemetery at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In 2005 as a result of a posted photo on the internet, people decided they too wanted to be part of this memorial. As a result, Boy Scouts and other civic entities got involved and this year over three million wreaths were placed. To honor the WWII fallen on foreign soil, there were wreaths laid as far away as the American cemeteries of Normandy. The mission of Wreaths Across America is to “Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach our children the value of freedom.”
Troop 26 had a good turn-out of twenty-five scouts and three leaders adorned in our Class A uniform and we feel honored to have been asked to participate in this meaningful ceremony. On a beautiful and clear but chilly morning, we met at the flag pole at the top of the hill. We started with the pledge of allegiance and the wreaths were distributed among those present and with a deeply moving gesture, we placed the wreaths, remembering those who have fought and died for us so we might have freedom. As we laid each wreath, we were instructed to say the name of the soldier. After we were finished, our bugler played taps to complete the ceremony.
Jack G.
