As the deadline for this year’s Wreaths Across America ceremony quickly approaches, organizers are calling for help to honor the veterans resting at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
Founded in 2007, Wreaths Across America honors veterans by placing commemorative wreaths at their gravesites. With over 3,700 locations nationwide, the organization placed more than 2.7 million wreaths at gravesites within 2023 alone, according to its website.
With just days left before the December 1 cutoff for this year’s ceremony, the local chapter is still 13,000 wreaths short of its goal to ensure every grave receives a remembrance wreath. The program relies on community donations, but with time running out, the nonprofit is now calling out to the public for a last-minute push of support.
The annual tradition of honoring veterans will start at 11. a.m. on December 14 at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, where 58,600 veterans are currently laid to rest. Volunteers will read aloud every veterans name as they lay a wreath at their gravesite, a small sign of appreciation for the big price veterans have paid to sustain freedom in America.
However, according to a report from NBC DFW, the shortage of wreaths means some graves may go without this year if enough funds are not raised.
In past years, the community has rallied to meet the need of Wreaths Across America, including a memorable push last year when volunteers passed the 18,000 wreaths needed just hours before the organization’s deadline, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
This year, with the clock ticking, the need for another push to support the veterans is just as urgent; with DFW’s branch of organizers hopeful that the community will step up again in these final days.
Those interested in donating to help cover the remaining 13,000 wreaths needed, or inquire about volunteering during the ceremony, can visit the Wreaths Across America DFW website. Each wreath costs $17, with a special offer of a free wreath added on for every two purchased.