ENGLEWOOD, Fla. — Communities across the United States will take part in Wreaths Across America Day on December 13th. More than 5,200 cemeteries here, at sea, and abroad, places like Normandy, Netherlands and Luxembourg, will honor our U.S. Veterans who are laid to rest. Volunteers will lay Remembrance Wreaths on veterans graves marked with American flags, say each name, reflect on their service and sacrifice. This is how the youth of today will see and learn the true cost of our freedoms.
The theme for this year is inspired by the last words of Captain Joshua Byers, U.S. Army, killed in action in Fallujah in 2003, as his Humvee was struck by an IED, his final command was “…Keep Moving Forward.” This is a call to action. Not just honoring the fallen, but urging communities and volunteers to continue working together, to keep supporting veterans, to keep honoring their memory, and to keep the mission alive.
Locally, residents are invited and encouraged to attend the Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m. at Gulf Pines Memorial Park, 2401 Englewood Road, Englewood. There will be a motorcycle escort to Lemon Bay Historical Cemetery after the ceremony to honor those laid to rest there.
“This ceremony gives our community the chance to come together and ensure that every veteran is remembered, especially during the holiday season.” said Catalina Bakas, Wreaths Across America coordinator in Englewood. The Lemon Bay NJROTC and the Venice Middle School Young Marines will participate, continuing their long-standing roles in the event. Organizers say the students’ involvement reflects core values of leadership, respect, and commitment. Just like those set by our VFW Post 10178, American Legion Post 113 and Marine Corps Detachment 756 Charlotte County.
The ceremony will feature a musical performance by the Sky Academy Chorus directed by Marianne Cooper. A flyover by the Gulf Coast Raptors Formation Team is also scheduled, weather permitting.
Every attendees will have the opportunity to come forward, say the name of a family member, friend, or comrade who served in the U.S. military and has died. They will then ring the VFW Remembrance Bell, and exit through a Saber Arch provided by the Lemon Bay ROTC. This way we all can honor your hero. A moving tribute, organizers describe as a powerful act of love, respect and gratitude.
