Homelake participates in ‘Wreaths Across America Day’ December 16
HOMELAKE — The Homelake Cemetery has participated in the “Wreaths Across America” since 2007 and this program has encouraged families to purchase a wreath to be placed on the grave of their loved one or another fallen troop member, whether at Homelake or another cemetery of their choice.
Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization, formed as an extension of the Arlington Wreath Project. Morrill Worcester began this project in 1992 with the donation and placement of 5,ooo Christmas wreaths in Arlington National Cemetery which became an annual journey for him.This project has spread to VA National and State cemeteries, spurring the creation of Wreaths Across America. Worcester was unable to donate thousands of wreaths to each state, so he conceived the idea to send seven wreaths, one for each branch of the military as well as for POWs and MIAs to each state or participating military cemeteries.
The mission is to remember, honor and teach about the fallen who gave up their tomorrows with family and loved ones so that others can enjoy their freedom, also to honor armed forces who currently serve and place themselves in harm’s way.
By 2008 more than 300 locations held wreath-laying ceremonies in every state, Puerto Rico and 24 overseas cemeteries. More than 100,000 wreaths were placed on veterans graves. More than 60,000 volunteers participated.
Congress named the wreath laying, held annually on the second Saturday in December as “Wreaths Across America Day” at Arlington National Cemetery as well as Veterans Cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states, ceremonies at sea and 24 national ceremonies on foreign soil. HOWEVER, DUE TO THE STATE HOUSE CEREMONIES ON DECEMBER 11TH, THE NATIONAL WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY FOR 2017 WILL BE HELD ON DECEMBER 16TH.
Date: December 16 at 10 a.m. at Colorado State Veterans Center Homelake cemetery coinciding with the placement of wreaths nationwide.
Address: CSVC 3749 Sherman Avenue, Homelake 81135
To purchase a wreath contact: Carol Martinez @ 719-849-1830
Or @ P.O Box 181 Monte Vista 81144
If purchasing by check please make payable to Carol Martinez & in memo note+ Wreaths Across America. Thank You.
Cost: $15 per wreath
Deadline for ordering is: November 22