Crystal Lake Honors Veterans with Wreaths Across America Ceremony

The Crystal Lake American Legion will hold a ceremony to honor veterans by placing wreaths on their graves as part of the annual Wreaths Across America initiative on December 13, 2023. This event, now in its second year, will take place at Union Cemetery, located at 150 West Woodstock Street, starting at 11 a.m. Community members are invited to participate in this solemn event, which aims to remember, honor, and educate about the sacrifices made by veterans.

The ceremony will be led by Post Commander Charlie Morgan, who will welcome families and the public. Crystal Lake Mayor Haig Haleblian is expected to address attendees briefly. The event will include a poignant moment to recognize Gold Star families, followed by the ringing of a bell and the reading of names of veterans who lost their lives in conflict. This tribute serves as a heartfelt acknowledgment of their service to the nation. Participants from Boy Scout Troop #165 will assist in laying the wreaths at the gravesites.

The origins of Wreaths Across America date back to 1992, when Morrill Worcester, a wreath maker from Harrington, Maine, sought to honor veterans after a childhood visit to Arlington National Cemetery. Encouraged by former Maine Senator Olympia Snowe, Worcester initiated the tradition by placing wreaths at Arlington, which has since expanded into a national movement. In 2007, the Worcester family, alongside veterans and supportive organizations, established Wreaths Across America as a nonprofit organization dedicated to remembering the fallen, honoring those who serve, and teaching future generations about the importance of freedom.

In 2023, Wreaths Across America and its network of volunteers successfully placed over 3 million veterans’ wreaths at 4,225 participating locations across the United States and beyond. This initiative not only commemorates the sacrifices of veterans but also engages communities in meaningful remembrance.

Those interested in volunteering to place wreaths or sponsoring wreaths for the event can visit the official website at wreathsacrossamerica.org. Specific information for Crystal Lake’s cemetery code is ILCLUC, and the American Legion Post 171 code is IL0324P. For more details about the William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171, please visit LegionCrystalLake171.org.

As the community gathers to honor its veterans, the ceremony will serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of those who have served and sacrificed for their country.