One of the most indelible images of Memorial Day is the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The floral tribute symbolizes the beauty and brevity of life and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our military heroes. We might think of wreath-laying ceremonies during Memorial Day and Veterans Day, but thanks to the nonprofit Wreaths Across America, these ceremonies are becoming more common during the holiday season.
On Wreaths Across America Day, military families and volunteers set aside the hustle and bustle of the season to remember the fallen with beautiful Christmas wreaths. The ceremonies are held on the second or third Saturday in December in Arlington National Cemetery as well as 37,000 other locations, including all 50 states, at sea, and abroad.
The nonprofit’s mission is to remember fallen veterans, honor those who serve, and teach children the value of freedom. Several of our team members proudly support the organization each year.
On December 17, 2022, members of Candlewood Suites Building 2020 on Fort Leonard Wood bought several wreaths for the soldiers, veterans, and local Boy Scouts participating in the ceremony on-post.
And in Virginia, team members held several events honoring veterans and guests from the DOD before inviting retired military personnel, spouses, and families to lay wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery.
Michael R. Bayerl, General Manager of IHG® Army Hotels on Fort Gregg-Adams, was one of 10,000 volunteers there. A retired veteran, he says he was inspired to get involved with Wreaths Across America because he’s “always had a passion for taking care of and honoring those that served before, with, and after me. No one deserves help and recognition more.”
Volunteering, he says, brought back fond memories of the teamwork and camaraderie he experienced in the service.
Wreaths Across America Day is a beautiful reminder that honoring those who died in service of our country doesn’t need to be— and shouldn’t be— limited to only Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
If you are interested in supporting Wreaths Across America, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org
