For the Tomahawk Leader

HARSHAW – Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, will pre-tape a National Wreaths Across America Day ceremony at Northwoods National Cemetery, Harshaw. The ceremony will be available for viewing on Saturday, Dec. 19 at www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/WINWNC.

The organization noted that modifications were made to the annual ceremony “to ensure the continuance of National Wreaths Across America Day” and “more importantly, to show the families of our nations heroes just how much we appreciate their ultimate sacrifice.”

Modifications include wearing masks, wearing gloves, socially distancing, limiting the number of volunteers, and foregoing public wreath laying ceremonies for virtual ones.

“The decision to amend this year’s traditional wreath laying was not made lightly and have gone great lengths to address public safety while maintaining the best interests of families whose loved ones are interred here,” the organization stated. “These continued efforts prove our resolve and tell the story of our commitment to our fallen veterans while demonstrating our appreciation for everything they have done to preserve the freedom that we all enjoy today.”

The organization noted that all sponsored wreaths will be placed by families of those interred and/or designated volunteers.

“The Wreaths Across America mission to Remember, Honor, Teach, is the foundation behind all the organizations efforts,” a release from the organization stated. “Throughout the year, local volunteers have been tirelessly working to make certain that families, loved ones and heroes get honored and remembered for the holidays. However, the challenge was doing so in a way that is consistent with safety and in compliance with local COVID-19 recommendations and mandates.”

Wreath sponsorships are $15 and can be sponsored directly at www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/WINWNC.

“There are two Sponsorship Groups supporting this cemetery,” the organization explained. “These groups represent local civic, youth, and veteran organizations giving back within the community, and any sponsorships raised through these groups this year will benefit them now, when greatly needed, through the $5 back program. The support of our two Sponsorship Groups, the American Legion Riders District 11 and the Veterans Ceremony – U.G.C., is greatly appreciated.”

“Every $15 wreath sponsorship is a meaningful gift from a grateful American who knows what it means to serve and sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America. “Whether the wreath is placed this December, or next, know that your gift will be honored. We are so grateful to the good people of this great nation for participating in our mission to Remember, Honor and Teach.”

For more information about changes to Wreath Day events in your community or to sponsor a wreath for a local hero, visit www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/WINWNC.