National Wreaths Across America Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Wreaths Across America Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Wreaths Across America Day is celebrated on December 17th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Wreaths Across America Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you should know about National Wreaths Across America Day.

📅 What day is National Wreaths Across America Day 2024?

In 2024, National Wreaths Across America Day is on Sunday, December 17th. It is the 3rd Sunday in December; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the cool details and facts about December 17, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Wreaths Across America Day is an annual event that has a clear purpose: to honor and remember fallen U.S. veterans, show appreciation for those currently serving in the military, and instill in future generations the significance of freedom. This meaningful day takes place on the third Saturday of December each year, not only at Arlington National Cemetery but also at various cemeteries across the United States, at sea, and even overseas. By placing wreaths, people pay tribute to both the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives and those currently dedicated to protecting our nation.

📜 National Wreaths Across America Day History

✅ National Wreaths Across America Day Facts

🔖 ​Former slaves had a village on the land
During the year 1863, individuals who advocated for the end of slavery offered their support to a community of emancipated slaves in establishing a secure place on the former plantation of General Lee. However, in the year 1900, the freed slaves were forcibly removed from the premises to accommodate the creation of a new cemetery.

🔖 ​The JFK burial raised Arlington Cemetery’s national profile
Arlington didn’t garner significant notice until after President John F. Kennedy’s funeral. Instead of Massachusetts, his wife opted for Arlington as she believed it was where her husband truly belonged, among the people.

🔖 ​It belonged to a Confederate general’s wife
Due to the inability of General Robert E. Lee’s wife to pay her taxes, the federal government seized the property and converted it into Arlington National Cemetery.

👍 Why Is National Wreaths Across America Day Important

Wreaths on the graves of departed military men are an incredible act of remembering. On Wreaths Across America (WAA) Day, friends and family can pay a special tribute to the lives of those buried there by laying a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition, the WAA’s Museum in Harrington, Maine, has a Remembrance Tree program. Gold Star families gather for friendship and to collect balsam tips, which are eventually made into wreaths.

Every year, National Wreaths Across America Day selects a theme that inspires a variety of activities. The topic for this year is “Be Their Witness,” which emphasizes the necessity of recounting the tales of people who have died. The theme is inspired by the inspiring narrative of Marine Michael Strobl, who participated in the Iraq War. When one of his comrades was killed by enemy fire, Lt. Colonel Strobl showed incredible loyalty by escorting the Marine’s body back to his hometown in Wyoming after the war.

Wreaths Across America Day teaches youngsters the value of freedom. It’s also vital to remember those who perished while defending our nation. WAA provides schools and youth organizations with learning tools, interactive media projects, and the opportunity to engage in a wide range of educational and patriotic events.

🙂 How To Observe National Wreaths Across America Day

⚡ Post your remembrance on social media
Embrace your poetic spirit and express sincere sentiments about someone you cherish, whether they are still with you or have passed on. Utilize social media platforms to share cherished memories and accompanying photographs. Openly discuss both the happiness and sadness you have experienced, as your words and images have the potential to bring solace to numerous individuals. Remember, you never know whose heart you may deeply impact through your heartfelt expressions.

⚡ Lay or sponsor a wreath
WAA has individuals called Location Coordinators who can help guide you to a nearby cemetery or memorial wall where you can participate in a wreath-laying ceremony. Additionally, you have the opportunity to support and honor both current and past military personnel by sponsoring a wreath.

⚡ Sponsor a dog tag
WAA offers a program that helps you create or support a dog tag in honor of a fallen soldier. While you do not physically make the dog tags, you can provide a written message that WAA will include on them. During annual ceremonies, you have the opportunity to personally place the dog tag with the veteran’s name on their gravestone.

📅 When is National Wreaths Across America Day?

See all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Historical holidays.

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