On December 19th, the annual Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony events took place honoring our nation’s veterans, active-duty military, and their families. This year, a total of 1.7 million veterans’ wreaths adorned the headstones of those that served.

Wreaths Across America is originally known for taking place at the Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) but has expanded to thousands of other cemeteries across the country each year. Every year, live balsam wreaths come from a direct, private donation from a citizen or organization to honor, appreciate, and respect those that served and protected our country, making the ultimate sacrifice. Wreaths Across America continues to use fresh evergreens as a symbol of honor that has been used throughout history.

In each of the 50 states, volunteers including Location Coordinators and professional truckers support efforts in the 2,557 participating locations honoring our nation’s heroes. Each year, the nonprofit organization utilizes this tradition,  representing “a living memorial” through the act of laying the wreaths while repeating each of the names out loud. Wreaths Across America confirmed these acts are to affirm that they live on in our memory.

“The 2020 theme for Wreaths Across America has been ‘Be an American worth fighting for,’ and this year I have been blessed to see my fair share,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America. “The determination of the American people and their commitment to the mission to Remember, Honor, Teach, made it possible for us to move forward this year, safely. We are humbled, and forever grateful for the outpouring of support from all across the country.” 

Last year, UPS contributed to the annual event by providing an Honor Trailer to assist in transporting the wreaths to the destination. In 2019, more than 50,000 wreaths were placed at the Arlington National Cemetery alone along with a 2.5+ mile-long parade.

All images provided by Wreaths Across America