GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — On a cold afternoon, a semi-truck with an American flag on the side of it pulled up to the back entrance of the cemetery outside Michigan Veteran Homes. The truck originally came from Maine, and on the way it made many stops to drop off wreaths to honor heroes. Inside the cemetery volunteers from 92 for 22, GI Bins and West Michigan Mortgage waited anxiously to unload the truck.
This is just the beginning of what will be a Wreaths Across America event scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 14 at noon.
"We get the opportunity to be one of many cemeteries that lay wreaths to make sure that at the holidays, now more than ever, we remember that [those who have served] are not forgotten, and their service and their sacrifice are as important to us today as it was when they signed the dotted line for service," said Tiffany Carr, who serves as the community engagement coordinator for Michigan Veteran Homes.
Anyone is welcome to volunteer to lay wreaths at Saturday's event.
"At 12 p.m. sharp, the procession of colors and bagpipes will start. Sunshine Church (located at 3019 Coit Ave NE) is the best place to park. Walk down Lamberton and into the cemetery gate," Carr said.
"Everyone is welcome to come lay your wreath. We ask that you say their name and just kind of take a moment to pause and just remember them. We'll have coffee and donuts, first come, first served, because it's going to be chilly."
Carr says it's incredibly gratifying to be able to honor those who have served through events like this. She says it also makes a difference for those veterans who are still living.
"That's all part of making sure that the veterans know, without a doubt, that they're not forgotten. They're still part of their community. It brings a lot of pride to the staff and the volunteers who show up every day," she said.
There are many more Wreaths Across America events coming up. If you'd like to find an event near you, the organization has a search tool on their website.