When my dad passed away in June of this year, we learned something really heartwarming while making his arrangement at the VA Cemetery. They told us about a program that was started a few years ago, where wreaths are placed on the graves of every soldier in VA Cemeteries. This used to be done at Arlington National Cemetery but now most VA Cemeteries participate.
We had planned on helping this year, but unfortunately we thought it was later in December. We did, however, go up the next weekend to visit dad and to see the wreaths.
My son, not fully understanding, asked me why don’t the families of the deceased place wreaths on their graves. I explained to him that they don’t all have family nearby, and there are many other reasons why a family might not be able to. That’s why the Wreaths Across America program is in place – to make sure that all deceased military personnel have a wreath during the holidays.
We are definitely going to volunteer to help next year, and if you are interested in doing the same, you can find more information about the Wreaths Across America program (you can also donate with this link). If you could see it in person, I’m sure it would warm your heart as much as it did ours.
I took this picture yesterday…there are no words:
I actually brought another wreath, from our home, to leave with dad…along with a note attached telling him how I love and miss him every day. It was comforting to know that even if I hadn’t been able to make it to see him this holiday season, that he wouldn’t be forgotten. No solider would be, thanks to this amazing program.
*This is my own experience – this is not a compensated post in any way. I am sharing this with my readers, as I think everyone should know about this program.
8 Responses
Thanks for posting this and telling us about Wreaths Across America. As a former service member, I’m always looking for ways to donate and give back. I will definitely do this going forward.
As far as the eye can see….powerful. Your loss is still so fresh. I hope Christmas won’t be too terribly difficult for the family. I see have some tough times and it’s been 3 years.
OH my,…pass the kleenex please. Jennifer…hoping you find peace this Christmas knowing your Dad KNOWS you with him still and he with you. I remember your other posts about this. TRUE Christmas spirit is not just in December…it is the promise of every person who believes in having life everlasting…all because of a tiny one sent from above.
Eternal love.
Your picture is amazing. Not only are there NO words, there is no NEED for words. Incredible and moving!
Thank you for this wonderful post. I shared information about the organization on both Twitter and Facebook (I also linked back to this post).
Next year my family and I will volunteer to help out. My grandfather was in WWII, my father was in the Army during Vietnam and my brother was in the Marines. It would be a nice way to honor them and so many others who risked thieir lives for our country.
I’m sorry about the loss of your dad. I know how hard it is. ((( HUGS ))) to you. ♥
This brought tears to my eyes. What a great program! Merry Christmas!
Wow, look at all of those wreaths (and graves..) brings tears to my eyes!! Hugs to you and Merry Christmas hon!!! <3
What an awesome program Jen, thanks for sharing with us. I know Christmas was probably difficult for you. Big hugs.
That is amazing, what a beautiful and heart warming thing to experience. Sorry you lost your dad, it is tough, will always miss my Pop too. It’s been a few years since he has passed. He wanted to be home and somehow all 8 of his kids and their children were there by his bedside. It was just before Christmas.