Honoring Our Heroes: Wreaths Across America Comes to Beaufort and Jasper Counties
As the holiday season approaches, Beaufort and Jasper counties are preparing to honor our veterans in a truly heartfelt way. This year, several local cemeteries are participating in Wreaths Across America, a touching initiative dedicated to remembering, respecting, and honoring the service of our military heroes. Volunteers will gather to place wreaths on the graves of veterans, ensuring they are remembered during this special time of year.
The Origin of Wreaths Across America
Founded by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992, Wreaths Across America started as a simple wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Over the years, it has blossomed into a nationwide event, with communities across the country participating to honor those who have served. This initiative encourages all of us to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our veterans so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today.
Upcoming Events in Beaufort County
In Beaufort County, mark your calendars for December 14th at noon. The Beaufort National Cemetery, located at 1601 Boundary Street, will host a special ceremony to commemorate our brave service men and women. A motorcycle escort will lead the way as tractor trailers filled with wreaths arrive around 11:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to join in the remembrance, as volunteers will place Remembrance Wreaths on the graves of veterans. As they lay the wreaths, participants can speak each veteran’s name aloud, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
The ceremony will also include a brief recognition of each branch of service, providing a poignant moment for all attendees. There’s something truly special about coming together as a community to honor those who have given so much for our country.
Celebrating in Jasper County
Meanwhile, in Jasper County, there’s an equally heartfelt ceremony planned. The wreath-laying event kicks off at noon on December 14th at the Ridgeland Cemetery on Ingram Street. Richard Dean, the Ridgeland coordinator, emphasizes the importance of this event, stating that “Wreaths Across America encourages us to remember, respect, and honor the service of our veterans.” There are know at least 232 veterans laid to rest in Ridgeland Cemetery, and all wreaths placed on their graves are funded through donations gathered by Wreaths Across America.
Not just limited to Ridgeland Cemetery, other local cemeteries including Old Sardis Cemetery, Grahamville Cemetery, and Grimes Cemetery will also join in this significant observance on December 14th. And for those who miss the opportunity, a ceremony will take place after services on December 15th at Gillisonville Baptist Church.
Hardeeville Joins the Tribute
Don’t forget about Hardeeville! On the same day, December 14th at noon, a ceremony will be held at Hardeeville City Hall. Under the guidance of local chair Steve Talbot, this occasion will feature a formal ceremony followed by the laying of ceremonial wreaths at the base of the City Hall flagpole. In addition, there will be a caravan that will visit five cemeteries around Hardeeville, creating a moving tribute to those who have served our nation.
Join the Celebration!
This holiday season, take a moment to reflect on the selfless service of our veterans. Whether you’re in Beaufort or Jasper County, there are plenty of opportunities to participate in Wreaths Across America. Whether you choose to lay a wreath, attend a ceremony, or simply share a story about a veteran, every act of remembrance counts. Join your community in ensuring that these heroes are never forgotten.
Let’s come together to show our appreciation and honor the brave men and women who stood up for our freedoms. Happy holidays, and let’s make this a season of remembrance!