COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine and ARLINGTON, Va. — National Wreaths Across America Day took place on Dec. 16 at more than 4,225 participating locations across the country, including Arlington National Cemetery.
Volunteers remembered the nation’s heroes as they said their names aloud, honoring more than 3 million veterans this year.
Communities, volunteers, big rig drivers and sponsors all came together in unity to support those who have protected the nation’s freedom.
“What I love most about this day, and this mission, is that it is so much more than just the placement of a wreath. The wreath is the catalyst, it brings together communities — families and strangers — to learn about those who have served and sacrificed,” said Karen Worcester, executive director Wreaths Across America. “We have more than three million volunteers across the country and a third of them are children. This mission and the events happening today provide the opportunity to teach kids about what freedom is.”
For centuries, fresh evergreens have been used to symbolize honor and a living tribute renewed annually.
“Wreaths Across America believes the tradition represents a living memorial that honors veterans, active-duty military and their families, a news release stated. “When volunteers say the name of a veteran aloud while placing a wreath, it ensures they live on in our hearts and memories and are always remembered.”
National Wreaths Across America Day 2024 will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14.
Born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and raised in East Texas, John Worthen returned to his home state to attend college in 1998 and decided to make his life in The Natural State. Worthen is a 20-year veteran of the journalism industry and has covered just about every topic there is. He has a passion for writing and telling stories. He has worked as a beat reporter and bureau chief for a statewide newspaper and as managing editor of a regional newspaper in Arkansas. Additionally, Worthen has been a prolific freelance journalist for two decades, and has been published in several travel magazines and on travel websites.
