For the Tomahawk Leader

HARSHAW – Union Grove Cemetery, Inc. and the District 11 American Legion Riders sponsored the first Wreaths Across America ceremony held at Northwoods National Cemetery in Harshaw on Saturday, Dec. 18.

Families, friends, current and former service members, Boy Scouts from Troop 548 in Tomahawk and members of the community joined together to honor the fallen.

After the veterans were honored, representatives from all military branches, as well as service and community organizations, placed and saluted ceremonial wreaths in honor of their fallen members. Wreaths were also dedicated to those who have earned the Medal of Honor and to prisoners of war and to missing service members.

Mike Handrick portrayed a U.S. Continental Marine while standing sentinel during the ceremony. Boy Scouts from Troop 548 placed wreaths and assisted with the ceremony, while District 11 American Legion Riders served as the ceremony’s honor guard. The Rev. Charles Sheffler served as guest speaker, Ginny Buzzell and Jonathan Lanctin closed the ceremony with “Taps,” and Retired U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Dan Keck rendered honors after placing a wreath in honor of U.S. Army fallen soldiers. 2nd Lt. Fiona B.A. Asbury, United States Space Force, placed for the first time a Ceremonial Wreath in honor of those serving in the United States Space Force.