Wreaths Across America

Lieutenant General John F. Mulholland, Jr., USASOC

During this time of gift exchanging and holiday gatherings, Wreaths Across America (WAA) serves as a reminder to me that there are those out there whose holiday table will be missing a loved one.  Their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their loved one is not gone unnoticed by the folks at WAA, whose mission is to Remember, Honor, Teach.  In a nutshell, the Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, has donated wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery to decorate the graves of veterans since 1992.  This mission has since been recognized by US Congress and has spread to cemeteries across the country.  Worcester ships donated wreaths across the country, to participating cemeteries that join together in a national moment of silence to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

I first learned of WAA back in 2008, when I was living in California and volunteering with the Patriot Guard.  I was honored to have been given a leadership role, as I partnered with Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona Del Mar to organize their ceremony.  After moving to North Carolina, I took on the same challenge and organized the 2009 ceremony at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake.

As you can imagine, the mission of this organization is near and dear to my heart, as the spouse of a service member and as a service member myself.  Circumstances have prevented me from participating since I've been here in Colorado, but I found a wonderful way to contribute this year.  WAA is offering a chance for you to Help Cover Arlington, and it's not too late!  There are tons of sponsorship options, including the Military Tribute Patriot Pair, which I jumped all over.  For $34.50, you can donate a wreath and receive one of your own, with an American flag and the service flag of your choice!  This isn't the thin variety of wreath you find at your local home improvement store or grocery store - this thing is plush.  Our new home is proudly sporting a gorgeous Air Force wreath, and I love that one will be decorating the grave of a veteran at Pacific View because of our purchase. 

Wreaths Across America Day is this Saturday, December 15th.  If you aren't able to donate, consider going out to a participating cemetery this weekend.  Remember.  Honor.  Teach.