Vernon Joining Wreaths Across America To Honor Veterans

VERNON, CT — The town of Vernon will join with Wreaths Across America to honor veterans and

those who have given their lives in the service of the nation on Saturday at Lugg Memorial Field
at Grove Hill Cemetery.

The ceremony is scheduled for noon and will consist of the placement of wreaths representing the five branches of the armed forces, the U.S. Merchant Marine and prisoners of war and those missing in action.

Veterans participate in the ceremony and place the wreaths.

"Honoring veterans and those who have given the last full measure is always appropriate," Vernon Mayor Daniel Champagne said. "The annual Wreaths Across America observance allows us to honor our veterans as well as service members who are on active duty now and separated from their families and friends during the holidays."

Lugg Memorial Field is a special section of Grove Hill Cemetery set aside for veterans and their spouses.
Vernon’s Wreaths Across America program is organized by Pauline "Polly" Schaefer, a Vernon Town Council member and veterans affairs advocate.

"Wreaths Across America was started to honor and remember those who served and to educate people about the sacrifice service members make for our country," Schaefer said. "These men and women stepped up when duty called. Now it's our duty to honor and take care of them."

Because of the coronavirus, the event is open to the public in a limited capacity and all participants are asked to wear face masks and to socially distance.

The event will also be livestreamed on the Town of Vernon’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/TownofVernonCT).