Communities across the United States and overseas observed National Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, December 13, as volunteers placed wreaths on the graves of U.S. military veterans to honor their service and sacrifice.
The annual observance took place at Arlington National Cemetery and more than 5,000 additional cemeteries nationwide, with over two million volunteers participating in the effort. The program is intended to ensure that the contributions of military veterans are remembered and recognized.
In Lakewood Township, the observance focused on Woodlawn Cemetery on Clifton Avenue, which was founded in 1872 and serves as the final resting place for hundreds of veterans. This year marked the first time Lakewood Township formally sponsored wreaths for placement at the cemetery.
According to township officials, Lakewood sponsored 100 wreaths for local veterans’ graves. The initiative was led by Mayor Ray Coles, who personally participated in placing many of the wreaths.
Mayor Coles was joined by his wife, Jan, and other family members, along with township employees representing the Lakewood Police Department, Lakewood Emergency Medical Services, and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union.
Volunteers placed the wreaths individually at each grave, pausing to read the inscriptions before placement. Mayor Coles said the experience underscored the significance of honoring those who served.
“There is something uniquely moving about standing before the grave of a veteran who served our country; and perhaps even gave their life in service,” Coles said. “Three generations of my family, as well as Township employees of all ages, said ‘thank you’ to ensure that no matter how many years have passed, our local heroes will be remembered and appreciated.”
Wreaths Across America is held annually in December as part of a nationwide effort to honor fallen service members, recognize those who currently serve, and teach future generations about the value of freedom.
