Wreaths Across America (WAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2007 as an extension of the Arlington Wreath Project. Today, WAA coordinates remembrance events at more than 5,500 participating locations across all 50 states, carrying out our mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach.
The Beginning of Wreaths Across America
The roots of Wreaths Across America trace back to 1992, when a surplus of wreaths from Worcester Wreath Company inspired a simple act of remembrance. Volunteers decorated a trailer load of wreaths and placed them at the graves of fallen soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery.
What began as a small gesture of gratitude grew into a nationwide movement dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans and military families.
The Mission: Remember, Honor, Teach
Three core principles guide Wreaths Across America:
Remember
Remember the fallen who gave their lives in service to our country.
Honor
Honor those who serve and have served, as well as their families, who sacrifice alongside them.
Teach
Teach the next generations the value of freedom and the sacrifices made to preserve it.
A Nationwide Effort
Today, Wreaths Across America coordinates annual wreath-laying ceremonies at thousands of participating locations, including national, state, and local veterans’ cemeteries, monuments, and memorial sites. These events are made possible through the support of volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who share a commitment to honoring America's veterans.
From a single trailer load of wreaths to a nationwide organization, Wreaths Across America continues to unite communities in remembrance and gratitude while ensuring that the legacy of our nation’s heroes is never forgotten.
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