Wreaths Across America

Last Saturday, members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the American Legion Post 404 gathered at noon to lay wreaths across the graves of Americans who have served in every branch of the military. This meaningful tradition takes place in cemeteries both large and small, throughout the United States and abroad. 

This unique celebration began with a young paperboy from Harrington, Maine, named Morrill Worcester. After winning a trip to Washington, D.C., Worcester toured Arlington Cemetery—a visit that left a lasting impression on him. As he grew older and found success, Worcester continued to reflect on the incredible gift given to him and others, made possible by the service and sacrifice of America's veterans. 

In 1992, after his company, Worcester Wreaths, ended the Christmas season with a surplus of wreaths, he decided to donate them to Arlington Cemetery. This gesture marked the beginning of the Wreaths Across America project, which has grown each year into a national movement. 

The journey from Columbia Falls, Maine, to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia has become recognized as the world’s largest veterans’ parade. Along the way, participants stop at schools, monuments, veterans’ homes, and communities to spread the message of the importance of remembering, honoring, and teaching others about the service of veterans. 

During the event, DAR member Val Bilbrey welcomed those in attendance. She introduced Reverend Thomas McCulley, who led the group in a welcoming prayer. Next, Commander Lee Rubenstein delivered a brief address before inviting members of his Post to place a wreath in honor of each branch of the military. 

Following the ceremonial placement, family members of departed veterans were invited to place a wreath on their loved ones’ gravesites. Volunteers were then welcomed to participate, continuing the tradition of honoring those who served, as they would continue placing wreaths on the remaining resting places of other veterans. 

Musical arrangements were presented by Tica Barrett of the New Life Community Church and Emily Savage, who carried on the tradition of her late husband, Colonel Herbert Savage, as they welcomed attendees to join with them by closing the event with a rendition of God Bless America.