Volunteers are prepared on Saturday to lay about 7,500 wreaths on veterans’ graves and along the columbarium at the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley.
The Wreaths Across America begins at 9 a.m., but attendees are encouraged to arrive at the cemetery before then. The ceremony’s starting time coincides with the laying of wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery at noon.
Spokesman Tom Draughon of the Northern Nevada Veterans Coalition said the ceremony has received more than enough wreaths.
The Wreaths Across America project, according to the organization’s website, is the second largest ceremony behind Memorial Day to honor veterans from all branches of military service. The program recognizes veterans in all 50 states, territories and at overseas national cemeteries.
Draughon said the NNVC has been involved in the wreaths’ project for eight years. About 500 volunteers will place wreaths this year after a short ceremony that explains the symbolism behind the Wreaths Across America project.
The NNVC has received donations from family members, the active-duty community and interested people. Donations have come from as far away as Connecticut.
Draughon said after wreaths were purchased for Saturday, additional donations will be carried over for the 2017 Wreaths Across America.