On a day marked by remembrance and gratitude, volunteers nationwide took part in National Wreaths Across America Day on December 13, honoring veterans by adorning their graves with wreaths.
An estimated 3 million wreaths were laid at over 4,900 cemeteries across the United States in 2024.
In New York, Long Island National Cemetery in Farmingdale received 7,500 wreaths with bright red bows. Members of the Civil Air Patrol, along with military families and others, braved the cold to pay tribute to the fallen heroes.
Michael Gieraltowski from the Civil Air Patrol emphasized the significance of this annual event: “It helps people remember and honor the sacrifice of the people who are laid to rest here,” he told News 12 Long Island. “That they gave to defend our country.”
Volunteers Working Together
Volunteers gathered to place the wreaths they purchased or to help ensure no veteran’s gravesite was overlooked.
“There’s only a small percentage of people that serve in the military that defend our country,” Gieraltowski mentioned. “This is an opportunity for the larger public to remember and show their support for those who serve.”
Army veteran Robert Gaba, who has participated in Long Island’s wreath-laying for 14 years, expressed a profound connection to the deceased veterans.
“It’s an honor to go to each one of the graves,” Gaba said. “The reason we come is obviously to honor all those people.” He emphasized that honoring veterans is an ongoing commitment, not limited to specific days like Veterans Day.
Ceremony Brings Personal Connections
In Fayetteville, Arkansas, Navy veteran Andrew Thompson echoed Gaba’s feelings, viewing each wreath as a tribute to a fellow service member. “I think anybody who is a veteran is a comrade of mine,” Thompson shared with CBS 5 News in Fayetteville.
For some like Jannie Lanyne, the event holds personal significance. “My son is buried right over there,” she pointed out at the Fayetteville National Cemetery.
For 15 years, Lanyne has been part of this tradition, having established Bo’s Blessings, a Northwest Arkansas organization aiding veterans and their families. In October, it became the first Blue Star Families Outpost in Arkansas, supporting military families in the 3rd Congressional District.
Steve Long, who honors his father through this ceremony, holds the role of secretary at the Regional National Cemetery Improvement Corporation.
“It’s very important to honor the veterans and to keep the space for them,” Long stated. “And many families in the area wish to be laid to rest near their loved ones.”
As wreaths were placed nationwide, the ceremony offered a moment to reflect during the bustling holiday season. “It’s not just the names that are on the stones; it’s the ones that didn’t make it this far,” Thompson added.
Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia also participated in wreath placements, with plans to remove them on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026.
