LOUISVILLE, Ky. — For the first time ever, every veteran's grave at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery in Louisville will be honored with a wreath this holiday season.
On Saturday, Dec. 14, national cemeteries across the country will take part in "Wreaths Across America Day."
At Zachary Taylor, following a noon ceremony, more than 11,000 Maine Balsam wreaths will be placed on the headstones of men and women who fought for our country.
“We have waited for years to be able to say we are covering every veteran’s grave for the holidays, said Dr. Scott Giltner, location coordinator, Gov. Isaac Shelby Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution. “We are astounded at the phenomenal community support this year and are so gratified by the kindness of others.”
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Brownsboro Hardware & Paint is one of several organizations in the community that have raised funds to purchase the wreaths.
“I can’t thank our customers and friends enough for stepping up to help again this year,” said Doug Carroll, owner of Brownsboro Hardware & Paint. “Nearly 2,500 wreaths were purchased at our two stores alone, and we sponsored another 200. We had such strong support with people buying one, five, ten, or even 100 wreaths. We are blessed to live in such a caring community.”
Not only will every veteran's grave receive a wreath, but each veteran's name will be said out loud during the ceremony.
“When a wreath is placed on Saturday, December 14, we ask that each person say the veteran’s name out loud,” said Susan Kalmey, co-location coordinator, Corn Island Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. “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.”
According to Wreaths Across America, all wreaths were purchased privately.
Lebanon National Cemetery in nearby Marion County has not yet reached their goal to sponsor all 4,500 veterans buried there. Click here if you're interested in helping them.