As families prepare for the holiday season, some residents are getting ready to honor the fallen soldiers as part of the Wreaths Across America program.
2011 will mark the 20th anniversary of the program aimed at laying wreaths on the headstones of veterans’ graves at Arlington National Cemetery, and around the nation.
In Marana, starting Dec. 10, wreaths will be laid on veterans’ graves at the Evergeen Cemetery and the Holy Hope Cemetery.
Sharon Jones will be participating in the tradition, laying a wreath on her son’s grave.
Jones’ son, Darrel Kasson, 43, was killed in Iraq in 2007. He was serving with the Army National Guard at the time.
Wreaths Across America is possible thanks to the donations of ceremonial wreaths.
After the non-profit program garnered a lot more support over the years, it has been able to expand to allow citizens to sponsor a wreath.
The organization’s goal is to one day see a wreath laid on every veterans’ grave during the Christmas season.
Sponsorships are $15 each. Proceeds place a wreath at one of the participating cemeteries.
Wreaths are currently laid at 570 locations nationwide during the month of December.
To support a local cemetery, residents can sponsor a wreath by going online to www.WreathsAcross America.org, or by calling 877-385-9504.
