This past Saturday, December 7, the Nation paused to reflect upon the horrific Japanese sneak attack on Pearl Harbor, killing 2,400 Americans, destroying 20 Naval vessels, and plunging America into World War II. One week later, this Saturday, December 14, will mark the 32nd observance of Wreaths Across America, established as a tribute remembrance of those deceased veterans who have answered our country’s call.

The initiative dates back to 1992 when the Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine, had a surplus of wreaths at the end of the Christmas holiday season. Company founder Morrill Worcester decided to donate 5,000 wreaths to a local cemetery to honor veterans interred. The tradition grew over the years, and in 2008, the United States Senate agreed to a resolution designating the second Saturday in December as Wreaths Across America Day.

This Saturday, 4,600 participating locations in all 50 states, including several cemeteries locally, will mark the observance.

Dori Rankinen, the unofficial coordinator of Wreaths Across America, Central Pennsylvania, heads a core committee of volunteers that will place wreaths in 30 communities, including Lycoming and Sullivan Counties, Watsontown, and Turbotville.

“Our mission is to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom,” Rankinen explained. “No matter where they served, Wreaths Across America strives to ensure that no one is forgotten.

“We welcome any individual or group of volunteers that would like to come out and help place the wreaths. It is all about honoring those who have served. I remember a quote that really grabbed my heart; ‘A person dies twice, once when they take their last breath, and then again when there’s no one left to say their name or tell their story.’

“The cemeteries we will be serving include the smallest cemetery in the Kurtz family plot in Eldridge Township, which has one Revolutionary solider, and our largest is Wildwood, where close to 5,700 veterans are buried. At each location, we will have wreaths to be placed.”

As part of each ceremony, the person placing the wreath on the soldier’s grave is asked to say their name out loud and thank them for their service, emphasizing the need for them never to be forgotten.

“This is a true volunteer effort, open to anyone that would like to take part and help out,” Rankinen added. “We’ve had high school students from bands play ‘Taps’ or sing the National Anthem. Sports teams have come out to help, as well as parents bringing their kids as a way of teaching history and honoring the veterans. Everyone is welcome.”

Much of the funding for the organization’s local efforts comes from bake sales, bingo games, donations, and support from local partners. Individual donations can be made through the Wreaths Across America website and Venmo.

For more information on getting involved or donating, please visit Wreaths Across America, Central PA, on Facebook to find the nearest participating cemetery.