Christmas wreaths adorn military personnel's gravesites; DAR hosts annual WAA event

Patsy Willis with two Cub Scouts at the grave-site of a member of the military. Photos Contributed.

More than 200 wreaths were placed on the graves of military personnel during the sixth annual Wreaths Across America Event held in December.

Sponsored annually by the Griffith Rutherford Chapter, NSDAR, a total 234 wreaths were placed on the graves at the Rutherford County Cemetery by DAR members who donated time, energy and monetary donations.

The theme at the December 18 ceremony was "Live up to their Legacy" and the DAR thanks everyone who helps to honor America's heroes each year.

"As we stood at each grave and read the names of those who served, we were reminded of their sacrifice, with great emotion, as we saw salutes from veterans as they walked away," said WAA Committee member Patsy Willis of the Griffith Rutherford Chapter NSDAR.

Rutherfordton Cub Scout Troop 132 with Eva Rogers and family participated in the ceremony for the first time. Scouts, Rogers and family members Scouts assisted in preparing and laying of wreaths on graves.

"These parents and Scouts were dedicated to preserving the history of those who served," Willis said in thanking them for their support.

Willis said the Cub Scouts and other youth who took part in the event earned community service hours for programs at their respective schools and scout troops.

The ceremony was led by DAR Chapter Regent Elizabeth Keeter (Betsy) Woolridge who welcomed all guests.

Susan Hall, Rutherford County Veterans Service Officer/Director, was recognized as a special guest.

Recognition was also given to Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery, Cosmo Pannell, Bruce Dobbins, Donna Potter and other staff.

Rev. Matt Mills, pastor of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, recognized each branch of service and Tara Horton, a Gold Star Mother, presented a rendition of TAPS on the flute during the brief ceremony.

Willis also gave special thanks to the American Legion Post 423 in Caroleen for helping place the wreaths.

"We say 'thank you' to all those who purchased wreaths for Veterans graves and families who volunteered to purchase wreaths and be a part of the laying of the wreaths," Willis added.

There are over 800 veterans buried at the Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery.

Willis hopes WAA participation will increase each year and more Christmas wreaths will be purchased in honor of service men and women who served in the military.