Wreaths Across America

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2017

The theme for 2017 is, “I’m An American. Yes, I Am.”

Today is National Wreaths Across America Day. Each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, the purpose is to remember and honor those 1,500,000 veterans who have passed into eternity by wreath-laying ceremonies at the 1,200 cemeteries across the county and throughout the world. At twelve o’clock today, we gathered at Gate Cemetery, across for the Veteran’ Hospital on West St. Rocky Hill, for a service of remembrance and recognition.

The program was as follows:

Major David Stansfield – Master or Ceremony

Blessing of the Wreaths – Captain Ryan McKenna, United Air Force Reserves

Posting of the Colors – 103rd Composite Squadron, CT Wing, Civil Air Patrol, US Air Force Auxiliary

Singing of the National Anthem – Mr. Ronald Lamb, Navy Veteran

Laying of Ceremonial Wreaths

Remarks:

~ Major David Stansfield,

~ The Honorable Claudia Baio, Mayor of Rocky Hill

~ Ms. Christy Hendrie, Vice-Regent, CT Daughters of the American Revolution

~ Ms. Theresa Latimer, Middlesex County Blue Star Mothers, CT Chapter 3

Taps

Retirement of the Colors

Today we show an united front of national unity, all across this country, as we remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and Teach our children the value of freedom.

Seven wreaths were presented:

1 – United States Army

2 – United States Navy

3 – United States Marie Corps

4 – United States Air Force

5 – United States Coast Guard

6 – United States Merchant Marines

7 – In honor of the 93,852 United States Servicemen and Service Women from all the branches of the services whose last known status was either Prison or War or Missing in Action.

A person dies twice: once when they take their final breath, and later, the last time their name is spoken.

May we never forget to honor those who have gone before and sacrificed to guarantee the freedoms we enjoy as being part of the family and fabric of the United States of America. May they rest in peace but never be forgotten.

Thanks to all those who attended and participate. Special thanks to the Fire Chiefs and members of Fire Companies 2 and 3 for their extra mile service.

Pastor Ron, Chaplain