Published November 15, 2024

Honoring Our Heroes: The Mission of Wreaths Across America

Written by Karina Gafford

Honoring Our Heroes: The Mission of Wreaths Across America

Each December, communities across the country come together for a powerful and meaningful tradition: Wreaths Across America. This annual event, held on December 14th this year, is dedicated to honoring and remembering the Veterans who served our country with courage and dedication. Participants from all walks of life join forces to place wreaths on the graves of those who sacrificed so much, turning cemeteries into places of unity and reflection, as every wreath laid is a heartfelt symbol of respect and gratitude.
What is Wreaths Across America?

Wreaths Across America began in 1992 when Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Maine, found himself with a surplus of wreaths as the holiday season ended. Remembering a formative trip to Arlington National Cemetery as a young boy, he was inspired to donate these wreaths to honor Veterans. With the help of volunteers, he laid 5,000 wreaths at Arlington, sparking a tradition that has grown into a national movement. Today, volunteers and organizations across the country come together to lay wreaths in over 3,700 cemeteries, transforming landscapes and reminding us all of the importance of honoring those who served.
The Mission of Wreaths Across America

The mission of Wreaths Across America is simple yet profound: Remember, Honor, and Teach. These three words capture the essence of what the event stands for and why it is so impactful:

Remember: We remember those who served and sacrificed, ensuring their legacy lives on.
Honor: By laying wreaths, we honor the lives of the fallen and their contributions to the freedoms we enjoy today.
Teach: Through events like Wreaths Across America, new generations learn the value of service and sacrifice, carrying these lessons forward.

How You Can Participate

There are several ways to get involved in Wreaths Across America, each providing an opportunity to show your support and gratitude:

Attend a Local Event: Find a local Wreaths Across America ceremony, such as ours at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, and join the community in honoring Veterans. The event begins at 9 AM on December 14th, where we will gather to place wreaths on graves and pay our respects.
Sponsor a Wreath: If you’re unable to attend in person, you can still participate by sponsoring a wreath. Every $15 donation ensures that a wreath is laid in honor of a Veteran. You can donate a wreath through our Wreaths Across America page and know that your contribution is a lasting tribute to those who served.
Listen and Learn: Wreaths Across America offers a unique way to connect with the stories of service members through Wreaths Across America Radio. This online broadcast shares stories, interviews, and music to honor Veterans, and is accessible for listening here.

Why Wreaths Matter

A wreath is more than just a holiday decoration. In the context of Wreaths Across America, it is a symbol of unity, remembrance, and gratitude. Each wreath placed on a Veteran’s grave reminds families and communities of the enduring impact these heroes have on our lives and our country. By participating in Wreaths Across America, whether in person or through a donation, you become part of a larger mission to recognize the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices of America’s Veterans.
Join Us in Remembering and Honoring Veterans

We invite you to stand with us on December 14th in honoring the heroes who made our freedom possible. Wreaths Across America is a day to come together, remember, and give back to those who gave so much. Whether you can join us at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery or sponsor a wreath from afar, your support helps keep the legacy of our Veterans alive.

Let’s honor their memories, show our respect, and teach future generations about the true meaning of service and sacrifice. Together, we can make this a day of gratitude and remembrance.