As the holiday season approaches, Wreaths Across America is set to honor veterans and first responders with its annual ceremony on Saturday, December 16. This tradition, now in its 31st year, has grown from a humble beginning at Arlington National Cemetery into a nationwide event with over 4,000 participating locations across all 50 states, overseas, and at sea.

Originating decades ago, when excess wreaths from a Maine Tree Farm adorned Veterans’ graves at Arlington National Cemetery, Wreaths Across America has become a symbol of remembrance, gratitude, and the enduring spirit of honoring those who served. The act of generosity gained national attention, evolving into a widespread holiday event observed not only in the United States but also in Military Cemeteries abroad.

Veterans and the public are invited to participate in this heartfelt tribute by laying wreaths on the graves of Service Members. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to participate, with families and individuals encouraged to join in the patriotic experience of honoring fallen heroes. To volunteer or learn more about the event, visit the Wreaths Across America official website.

On National Wreaths Across America Day, the mission to ‘Remember, Honor, and Teach’ is carried out through wreath-laying ceremonies at cemeteries, memorials, and historic sites. Volunteers play a crucial role, placing live, balsam wreaths on Veterans’ headstones. The tradition of using fresh evergreens symbolizes honor and serves as a living tribute renewed annually.

To register for a location nearby and contribute to ‘Remembering, Honoring, and Teaching,’ individuals are encouraged to visit the Wreaths Across America website here.

This year’s National Wreaths Across America Day on December 16, will see over 2 million Veterans’ Wreaths placed across local, national, and military cemeteries, as well as Veterans’ Memorials and historic sites. The event is made possible by dedicated location coordinators, working with cemetery contacts, local governments, and the support of community members, businesses, civic groups, and organizations.

For decades, American Legion family members across the nation have participated in this annual program, commemorating fallen Veterans and honoring those currently in active service.

On December 16, the nation is invited to join together with The American Legion to pay tribute to Veterans and first responders, remembering their sacrifice, honoring their service, and teaching the next generation the value of freedom. The American Legion asks individuals to join the movement by using the hashtag #ServeAndSucceed on social media and contribute to this meaningful tradition that pays tribute to those who have served our country.

California American Legion posts and Legionnaires taking part in Wreaths Across America are encouraged to contribute to the December California American Legion Membership Photo Contest by submitting their photos via email to membershipdirector@calegion.org.

Author: Rikki Almanza

Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.