National Wreaths Across America Day exists to remember, honor, and teach by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and over 3,400 other locations. On December 17, volunteers at participating cemeteries in Owensboro and across the world will lay wreaths at the grave sites of fallen veterans.
Daviess County Clerk Leslie McCarty is leading the charge at Owensboro Memorial Gardens, where guests from every military branch will be present for a brief ceremony. The small group of volunteers will then lay wreaths across the entire cemetery.
“We currently have 111 wreaths sponsored, and that’s a huge improvement from last year,” McCarty said. “We’ve always said a solider dies twice, once at their passing and again when people stop saying their name. This is a great opportunity to honor and remember a loved one.”
The event will begin at 11 a.m. with the Robert Mosley Chapter of the Sons of the Revolution leading the ceremony.
McCarty took over for Robert Brooks, who was the local event coordinator until 2020. Since canceling the event in 2020 due to the pandemic, the group remains steadfast in its efforts to return to the high level of participation they once enjoyed.
Those interested in contributing to the cause and donate a $15 wreath at wreathsacrossamerica.org. Simply access the website, click on the menu to the right, and select Owensboro Memorial Gardens or another participating location.
“This is an opportunity for people to let their spouse, son, daughter, or more isn’t forgotten, but rather an active part of their lives,” McCarty said. “It’s a busy time of year, and it takes a special group of volunteers to go out and honor those who signed on the dotted line.”
Resurrection Cemetery is also participating in the event, and McCarty hopes to inspire others to step up and begin hosting the event at other locations.
