Tahoma National Cemetery hosted ‘Wreaths Across America’ Saturday, December 15, an annual holiday wreath-laying ceremony to honor and remember our nation’s Veterans. This year 5,409 wreaths were placed on the graves of veterans. There were 1,000 people in attendance.
The ceremony began at 9 a.m. across the country at every National Cemetery, from Arlington National Cemetery to Hawaii, in their respective time zones. Renton Liberty High School singers provided music, singing ‘God Bless America’ and many other songs dedicated to God, liberty and the military.
This year’s theme was “Be Their Witness”. The inspiration stems from the 2009 drama “Taking a Chance”, which was based on the experiences of U.S Marine Lt. Colonel Michael Strobl, who escorted the body of a fallen Marine, PFC Chance Phelps, back to his hometown in Wyoming from the Iraq War WAA’s mission.
Wreaths Across America’s mission, ‘Remember, Honor, Teach’ is carried out in part by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies at Arlington, as well as at veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 States and beyond. The Washington Civil Air Patrol, veterans of each branch of the military, the Merchant Marine as well as the prisoners of war and those still missing in action. (POW/MIA).
The opening prayer was given by Lt. Col. William Adam, USAFA/CAP, followed by a moment of silence.
“We are thankful for the men and women who were able to be with us today in order to lay the wreaths. Giving honor to those who faithfully served,” he said. “We are grateful for those who faithfully served for their dedication to God, their country and fellowman. May your spirit guidance go with them that they may continue to be a channel of service to others.”
Covington Mayor Jeff Wagner gave the opening remarks and read the City Proclamation.
Ceremonial wreaths were placed by 2 or 3 Gold Star Mothers, assisted by the duty/reservist or guardsman of the specific branch of service and by the Civil Air Patrol cadet. The Gold Star Mothers wear white, which is their time-honored tradition. While black is the traditional color of mourning, the decision to wear white rather than black denotes the celebration of their children’s goodness, innocence and sacrifice. Every branch of the military was represented, as well as the POW/MIA. Director Thomas L. Yokes gave the closing remarks, asking if volunteers would return on January 18th to help staff pick up the wreaths from each grave.
Wreaths were provided by the Worcester Wreath Company through a campaign called Wreaths Across America, which began donating holiday wreaths in tribute to veterans laid to rest at VA National Cemeteries and State Veterans Cemeteries in 2006.
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