Remembering the men and women who served as part of Wreaths Across America
By Sonya Ellison,
For volunteers like Carrie from Corning it’s a chance to relive memories as she honors her loved ones who served.
“It reminds me of my family who served in the Marines. My mom and dad were both in the Marines and my Dad was in Pearl Harbor when it was bombed.” she shares.
Carrie comes every year to participate in Wreaths Across America. This year, the snowfall made the annual holiday tradition extra picturesque.
“It is very pretty with the snow!” she says.
Veterans like Jean Williams 7th District Treasurer Honor Guard helped lead the Wreath-laying ceremony.
“I’m proud to honor all these men and women who served today!” shares Williams, an Army Veteran who is a part of the Wreaths Across America Ceremony every year.
Williams explains the ceremony prioritizes wreath-laying beginning with the oldest graves.
“Since they do not have a living family at the ceremony, we want to make sure they are recognized so we place those wreaths first.” she says.
Volunteers were reminded at the beginning of the ceremony:
“You aren’t just decorating graves, you are honoring and remembering these men and women for their service.”
Volunteers read each veteran’s name before they placed the wreaths on the grave and saluted them.
Bath VA Fire Department Deputy Mike Cornish, helped hand out the wreaths and encouraged everyone to get involved so Wreaths Across America can honor even more veterans next year.
“This is totally volunteer and powered by volunteers and the Wreaths Across America donations.” Cornish says.
Though the deadline for 2025 wreath sponsorships has passed, it’s not too late to get involved by making a donation for next year.
The wreaths will remain on the graves until next month.
Volunteers for Cleanup are needed Saturday, January 24th from 10am to 1pm.
“It’s going to be the hardest day to come out because it will be colder.” Cornish shares.
“Bring your gloves, brooms, plastic sleds and whatever else will make the job easier.”
This year, Wreaths Across America was able to honor 4,350 veterans resting at Bath National Cemetery.
But Cornish says the goal for next year is to cover all 16,000 graves at Bath National Cemetery.
In the spirit of the holiday season, people can now sponsor the wreaths as gifts for the 2026 ceremony.
“Tell your friends, tell your family, tell your enemies!” he exclaims.
To sponsor wreaths or make a donation to Bath National Cemetery next year, visit:
https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/16639/
