Why Is There a Special Focus on Arlington National Cemetery?

The tradition that became Wreaths Across America began at Arlington National Cemetery, making it the birthplace of our mission.

When Morrill Worcester, founder of Wreaths Across America and owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine, was just 12 years old, he earned a trip to Washington, D.C., as a paperboy for the Bangor Daily News. During that trip, his visit to Arlington National Cemetery left a lasting impression. As he built his business, he often reflected on that experience and the sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans.

In 1992, Worcester Wreath Company found itself with a surplus of holiday wreaths. Remembering his visit to Arlington, Morrill Worcester saw an opportunity to honor veterans by placing wreaths in the cemetery’s older sections, where fewer visitors came.

With the support of Senator Olympia Snowe, Blue Bird Ranch, and volunteers from the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C., the wreaths were transported to Arlington, decorated with red bows, and placed during a special ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

What began as a simple act of remembrance grew into a nationwide movement dedicated to:

• Remember the fallen
• Honor those who serve
• Teach the next generation the value of freedom

Today, while Arlington National Cemetery remains a significant part of our history, National Wreaths Across America Day is observed at more than 5,500 participating locations across the United States and abroad.

For more information about our history and mission, please visit the Our Mission page. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Customer Service at 877-385-9504. We’re happy to help.