LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After asking for the public's help to sponsor a wreath, more than 8,300 wreaths will be placed on veterans’ graves at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery Saturday.
According to a news release, this is a record number and 2,500 more than last year. The Main Balsam wreaths will arrive at the cemetery on Dec. 11 and will be placed on Dec. 16, following a noon ceremony.
"While we are not able to cover all 11,300+ veteran’s graves at Zachary Taylor, this year, we are astounded at the phenomenal community support this year,” Dr. Scott Giltner, location coordinator, Gov. Isaac Shelby Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, said. “When we started this project locally, fewer than one in five veterans’ graves had been sponsored, and last year, we covered only half. This year, 75% will receive wreaths. We are so gratified by the kindness of others, and we will continue to work to ensure that every veteran’s grave is covered some day in the future.”
People who attend the ceremony will be asked to put wreaths on graves.
“When a wreath is placed on Saturday, December 16, we ask that the person says the veteran’s name out loud,” Susan Kalmey, co-location coordinator, Corn Island Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, said. “That way, that veteran is never forgotten. Many participants will bring their children to teach them about the contributions that our veterans have made for the betterment of our country.”
Officials said there were 8,330 wreaths donated, and this number may increase once all the results are reported to the national Wreaths Across America campaign.
Wreaths Across America placed more than 2.5 million wreaths at more than 4,000 locations last year, the release said. The organization's mission is to "remember the fallen, honor those that serve, and teach the next generation about the value of freedom."
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