'Wreaths Across America' at National Cemeteries

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'Wreaths Across America' at National Cemeteries | Photo 02

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uploaded by Kati Garner

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National Cemeteries participated in Wreaths Across America on Dec. 12. Wreaths were placed on veterans' graves who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

This was the fourth year Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA participated.

Wreaths were placed on more than 5,000 graves.

One of the speakers, Robert Ehlert, Senior Field Representative for United States Congressman Dan Lungren eloquently spoke:

"In order for these wreaths to be made, a tree has to give up some of its branches. The branches are weaved together, intertwined, into an internal symbol. A pretty red bow dresses up the final product.

Today, our memories of our veterans are the branches.Your thoughts are being lifted for loved ones as our vine.

My memories and your memories are the branches weaving this tribute today.

From the sky we are wreaths  all over the country.Our collective memories all over the country make that circle.

Our love of freedom is our red bow that binds us.

This crowd makes one beautiful wreath."

Before the wreaths were placed, the ceremony included the Presentation of Colors, the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem Rifle Salute, Bagpipe Music and Taps.

Wreath presentations were made by:

• United States Army - 1SG Larry Clark, Ret., 1SG Henry Sanchez, Ret.
  
• United States Navy - PO2 Michael Hagerman, Ret., LTCMDR Betty Livingston, Ret.
• United States Marine Corps - SGT MAJ Jesse Branch, Ret., SGT John Darby, Ret.
• United States Air Force - CMS George Moses, Ret., CMS Al Hegelein, Ret.
• United States Coast Guard - ADSO/LT Randy Powers, USCG, Aux., CWO4 Tom Sarciapone, USCG, Ret.
• United States Merchant Marine - Kenneth Blue, William Fairfield
• POW/MIA's - Steve Johnson and Luke Lentz, Boy Scout Troop #663, Patriot Ancestors - Anne Loucks Chapter, NSDAR, 1st Vice Regent Susan Busenius, 2nd Vice Regent Susan Busenius, 2nd Vice Regent Judity Onopchenko.
  

Over 5,000 wreaths were laid on graves within 45 minutes.

Wreaths Across America began with the act of one man, Morrill Worcester, with the help of Maine Senator Olympia Snowe.

At the age of 12, Worcester had made a trip to Arlington National Cemetery.

"In later life, he recognized that his success as a businessman was in large part, due to the values of this Nation and the Veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country," according to Wreaths Across America website. Go to Wreaths Across America for the rest of the story - CLICK HERE>>>>

Photos | Kati Garner (US Navy veteran)