The coronavirus pandemic forced Wreaths Across America a new look for its annual tradition.
Since 1992, Wreaths Across America has committed to laying wreaths every December at the Arlington National Ceremony to honor and remember fallen veterans – an effort that expanded to more than 2,100 additional locations across the country in 2007.
“Today we place these wreaths on these memorial stones and we remember,” said Colonel David Shoffner, a chaplain. “We remember with a heart of gratitude and appreciation, the men and women these stones remind us of.”
The 2020 edition of the national effort has gone digital for health and safety in some locations. According to an army blog post, film crews helped stream the event, allowing families to “attend” while staying safe during the pandemic.
“For those who have had the opportunity to participate in wreath escorting over the years, it is truly an experience of a lifetime,” Karen Worcester, WAA executive director told the Highland County Press. “The way we’ve been welcomed into communities, with flags waving and streets lined with children and veterans, is something we’ve always wanted every American to witness.”
“And just like the wonderful song that our good friend Don Campbell wrote about this effort, we do this again for every daughter and son, under the snow in Arlington.”
President Trump welcomed the effort to keep the tradition alive even in troubled times.
“Very happy to have @WreathsAcross America open and operational today so beautifully,” Trump tweeted. “Congratulations to everyone who worked so hard for this great success!”
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Each location will take different measures to continue the tradition and honor those who gave their lives for their country.
In Washington state, hundreds of volunteers usually participate, but smaller groups work in person and observe social aloofness, the Leavenworth Times reported.
Diana Pitts, a coordinator of the Wreaths Across America program at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, said a ceremony is also planned there.
In Missouri, Executive Director Nancy Guth said access to the National Veterans Memorial will be limited except for personnel, KFVS reported.
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“Wreaths Across America’s mission is to remember, honor and teach,” said Guth. “This year will be different. We plan to do it virtually and we always want to remember, honor and teach the people who have served this great nation.”