SE Texas Times

Recognition of the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families is highlighted during the holiday season through the Wreaths Across America program. This annual tradition, which began in 1992 with a donation from Worcester Wreath Company, honors men and women of the armed forces who have died in defense of the United States. The program has evolved into a national nonprofit organization dedicated to remembering fallen service members by placing wreaths on their headstones.

Wreaths Across America now includes state and federal cemeteries across the U.S. and 24 veteran cemeteries abroad. The organization partners with local entities and trucking companies to deliver over 300 loads of wreaths to more than 1,000 sites nationwide.

In 2008, Congress officially designated one Saturday each December as National Wreaths Across America Day. This year’s event will occur on December 14th at several locations in Corpus Christi, Texas, including Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, Seaside Memorial Park, Rose Hill Cemetery, Royal Palm Cemetery in Port Aransas, Veterans Memorial Park in Rockport, and Old Bayview Cemetery.

The program also aims to educate younger generations about American freedoms and military sacrifices. It engages schools, scouts, civic groups, and religious organizations through fundraising for wreath sponsorships and provides downloadable teaching materials.

Individuals can participate by sponsoring a wreath or volunteering at local events. More information is available on the Wreaths Across America website.

For further inquiries about this week's article or constituent services related to Texas state agencies, contact State Representative Todd Hunter's Capitol Office at 512-463-0672 or District Office at 361-949-4603.

Rep. Hunter represents parts of Aransas County and Nueces County. He can be reached via email at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or by phone at 512-463-0672.