Today is the most celebratory time for Christmas at Arlington National Cemetery. I am departing from my usual Thursday post this week.
Sometimes I’m in DC for Christmas. If you happen to fly in over Arlington National Cemetery you will see a sight you will long remember- fresh hand-made wreaths with red ribbons on the graves. If there is a new snow, it’s even more impressive.
The fresh evergreens are a symbol used for centuries to recognize honor, and a living tribute renewed annually. For 20 years volunteers have placed the wreaths donated by the Worchester Wreath Company. No balsam trees are cut down to make the wreaths. Only the tips of the branches are used and regenerate every three years. It began with 4,000 and last year 15,000 volunteers laid 90,000 wreaths at Arlington. Trucking companies volunteer to deliver the wreaths. In 2007 Wreaths Across America was established to facilitate the effort. There are 2.7 million military graves in the nation. Their goal is to place a wreath on each one. No government funds, no taxpayer money is used in this volunteer effort exemplifying the spirit of the season.
Merry Christmas from Casart Coverings!
– Lorre Lei
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