LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Wreaths Across America will be returning to Little Rock National Cemetery as the cemetery is set to participate as an official location in the national program for the ninth year.
The yearly program began as a kind gesture but has grown into a "national, yearlong movement of dedicated volunteers and communities coming together" to pay tribute to the contributions and memory of fallen servicemembers, along with educating the next generation "about the value of freedom."
“We are forever grateful for the thousands of supporters who dedicate their time, energy and resources to fulfilling our mission all year long,” said Karen Worcester, executive director, Wreaths Across America. "These individuals and their communities know the value of remembering the fallen, honoring those who currently serve and teaching the next generation about the sacrifices made for our freedom every day, and because of their continued support, Wreaths Across America continues to grow and touch new people each year.”
According to Wreaths Across America organizers, the Little Rock National Cemetery is looking to reach their goal of raising enough money to place 22,000 sponsored veterans' wreaths on the headstones of "all the local heroes laid to rest there."
"[The funds are] to ensure that the individuals who served to protect the freedoms of our country never be forgotten and to bring the community together in patriotic commemoration," the organization said in a press release.
The group currently has 6,000 sponsored wreaths for the 22,000 veterans that are buried at the cemetery. The deadline for sponsored wreaths for 2024 is December 2, 2024.
For those interested in sponsoring a wreath for the Little Rock National Cemetery or becoming a volunteer this year for Wreaths Across America, you can click here.
Organizers with Wreaths Across America emphasized that the event is free and open to everyone. The Little Rock National Cemetery can be found at 2523 Springer Blvd for those looking to attend and support.
In total for 2024, there will be over 4,500 participating locations and over 3 million volunteers for National Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, Dec. 14.
