Wreaths Across America is a program which has grown from humble roots of placing wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery during the holiday season to a full-blown year around operation encompassing over 1,600 cemeteries around the world.
In New Bern, this will be the 9th year to participate in the Wreaths Across America program, which commences on the National Wreaths Across America Day, Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 12:00 noon. Each live balsam wreath that is placed upon a veteran’s headstone costs $15 and must be sponsored and paid for through local efforts.
The New Bern National Cemetery is a unique challenge for these fundraising efforts due to the number of interments, 7,519, and the age of the cemetery, built in 1867. Adding to the challenge, is the incredible fact that the cemetery contains approximately 1,000 unknown remains from the Civil War. Nevertheless, volunteers gather and work diligently to fundraiser, coordinate, and honor these veterans each year.
For 2019, fundraising efforts are already underway. Much of this progress can be tracked on the Wreaths Across America website or on the local Facebook page, “Wreaths Across America-New Bern”. Future fundraising events include booths at Mumfest, the New Bern Farmer’s Market, and Mitchell’s Hardware in downtown New Bern. Wreaths can also be sponsored utilizing the link on the Facebook page, Wreaths Across America-New Bern.
Any questions concerning Wreaths Across America can be directed to the Location Coordinator, Kevin Yates 252-529-9119 or the Facebook page, “Wreaths Across America-New Bern”.
Submitted by: Kevin Yates, Location Coordinator, WAA New Bern National Cemetery