By DENA WEIGEL BELL
WaKeeney Travel Blog
Wreaths Across America is returning to the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney on Saturday, Dec. 15 for its 13th annual wreath laying ceremony.
This special event is modeled after the iconic wreath laying ceremony held each year at Arlington National Cemetery in a mission to “Remember, Honor and Teach” the patriotic values our service members demonstrate worldwide through their service and their sacrifice. Today, Wreaths Across America ceremonies occur in over 1,200 locations in all 50 U.S. states and at military cemeteries across the world.
Along with the wreaths placed on grave sites, seven specially made wreaths donated by the same supplier of the Arlington cemetery’s wreaths, will be laid out in recognition of each branch of the military. Morrill Worcester, president of Worcester Wreath Company, explains his desire to develop the Wreaths Across America project. “Our goal is to expand the recognition of those who serve our country, both past, present, and future, as well as their families who deserve our support. Without the sacrifices of our veterans, there would be no opportunity to enjoy the freedoms, the life we live today.”
The ceremony held at the WaKeeney Veterans Cemetery is a moving experience based in the traditions of the United States military. Errol Wuertz, Hays, of the Civil Air Corp. and Rev. Stanton will present a short service, followed by a 21-gun salute performed by the American Legion of Colby, Kansas. A moment of reflection will fall as people in attendance lay wreaths upon the graves of our servicemen and women who fought to preserve the American values of freedom, justice, and equality for all.
The American Legion Riders and Knights of Columbus will lay wreaths for those service members whose families are unable to attend the event, so no veteran goes unrecognized.
Please join us at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 15 for the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony to remember all the brave men and women and their families who have served in our military.
If you would like to participate in laying wreaths during the ceremony, or if you would like to contribute to the purchase of the 2019 wreaths please contact Cemetery Manager Heidi Goff at 785-743-5685.
