Each year, the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery participates in “Wreaths Across America,” a nationwide day of recognition for past veterans through the placement of Christmas wreaths at grave sites.
Wreaths Across America was developed on the idea to “Remember, Honor, Teach,” by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies on a day in December in all 50 states, its territories and other countries.
Placement of the wreaths begin 9 a.m. on Saturday at the NNVMC, 14 Veterans Drive in Fernley. The wreaths are placed each year through the work of organizations and the public who wish to attend.
NNVMC has been fortunate to receive enough wreaths to cover each headstone throughout the cemetery because of donations and sponsorships from individuals and organizations.
“These wreaths are entirely funded through private donations in honor of veterans and family members who are placed at the Fernley Cemetery,” said Kat Miller, director of the Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS). “For the past two years, each of the over 5,700 interment sites had a wreath placed upon it. This was due entirely to the outpouring of support from the community and family who want to continue to remember those who have served and are no longer with us during the holiday season.”
Miller said her office is honored with this outpouring of support from the community and families who remember those who have served and are no longer here during the holiday season.
“We’re very fortunate to have so many organizations involved in the wreath placement ceremony,” Miller said.
She said members from many organizations are scheduled to be involved this year, and she invites anyone interested in assisting to come out.
“It is truly a moving experience to see and be a part of the involvement in honoring veterans,” she said.
Miller would also like to thank the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who are responsible for making this annual ceremony honoring the veterans possible.
Donations may also be made now for next year for either the Fernley or Boulder City cemeteries.
“We’re encouraging sponsorships for 2016 to begin now for both cemeteries,” Miller added. “Sponsorship of a wreath can be made directly to either cemetery for next year through the links dedicated to each cemetery.”
Costs for wreaths begin at $15. To sponsor a wreath in Nevada, click one of the links for a Nevada state cemetery: Wreaths for Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery or Wreaths for Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery.