After two solid days of rain, the sun shined brightly on Dec. 17 on the army of volunteers out to participate in the annual Wreaths Across America (WAA) wreath laying at the Presbyterian Church in Shrewsbury.
This is part of the national journey of this event which concludes at Arlington National Cemetery to mark National Wreath Across America Day.
Wreaths Across America is the national non-profit organization whose mission is to Remember, Honor and Teach, carried out in part with the placement of over 2,500,000 veterans’ wreaths at locations across America, at sea and abroad. Each of these wreaths are handmade by volunteers in Maine before journeying in a massive caravan of 18-wheel trucks to sites along the way to Arlington.
This year, as before, the historic Presbyterian Church at Shrewsbury welcomed a crowd over 200 families and individuals to be a part of this reverential ceremony.
The ceremony began with a procession and the presentation of the colors by the Boys Scouts. Next Rev. Katja Gruening, Pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Shrewsbury gave a beautiful benediction. Color guard members of the Sons of the Revolution in period attire explained the meaning of the day and reminded every one of the great sacrifices made by, not only the fallen war dead, but all who have served our country. Jake Rue of the multi-generational Rue family shared that is uncle, Pvt. Robert Campbell, the son of Bruce and Margaret Rue Campbell was one of the veterans being honored at the ceremony. Pvt. Campbell was killed in action in Anzio, Italy on May 23, 1944.
Mr. Rue instructed the volunteers that each person laying a wreath should speak the name and thank the soldier and their families for their great contribution in preserving the freedoms enjoyed in this nation. “By speaking their names, we are re-affirming the important service each has played.”
Finally, the dedicated attendees began the noble work of honoring the fallen war dead by placing the wreaths on each headstone.
If you would like to sponsor a wreath for the 2023 escort or learn more about WAA, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org. Each $15 sponsorship goes toward a fresh balsam veteran’s wreath that will be placed on the headstone of an American hero.
By Lori Draz
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