On December 14, 2024, the Guardians of the National Cemetery participated in the annual Wreaths Across America event, a nationwide initiative dedicated to honoring fallen veterans by placing wreaths on their graves.

This year’s theme, “Live with Purpose,” inspired volunteers to reflect on the meaningful contributions of servicemembers and the importance of purposeful living.

The Guardians supported the event by assisting with tasks such as unloading wreaths from trucks and placing them at designated gravesites.

A poignant aspect of the ceremony involved volunteers saying each veteran’s name aloud before placing the wreath, embodying the belief that a veteran dies twice: once when their heart stops, and again when their name is spoken for the last time.

This act ensures that their memory endures.

The Guardians are honored to contribute to Wreaths Across America’s mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach, and remain committed to supporting such initiatives that pay tribute to our nation’s heroes.

For more information about Wreaths Across America and how to get involved, please visit their official website.