The annual Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony was observed at New Cumberland Cemetery on Saturday, December 16. More than 50 volunteers came out to honor the town’s veterans by placing fresh pine wreaths on the veterans’ graves. This year there were 420 wreaths placed, breaking last year’s record of 315. The ceremony began with a moment of silence followed by the presentation of the ceremonial wreaths which represent each branch of service and those who are still POW/MIA. A brief history of the WAA program was followed by the playing of “Taps.” Then the volunteers spread out throughout the cemetery to place the wreaths on veterans’ graves. The volunteers are encouraged to say each veteran’s name aloud as they place the wreath as a way of keeping their memory alive. The motto of the Wreath Across America Association is “Remember, honor, teach.” This motto encourages all of us to remember the fallen, to honor those who serve, and to teach the next generation the value of freedom. Each year, the WAA program chooses a theme for their campaign. This year’s theme was “Serve and succeed.” The theme is a continuation of last year’s theme “Find a way to serve.” By serving those around us, we help the community to succeed. The New Cumberland Community Projects Committee, which sponsored the event, is grateful to all of the businesses, organizations, and private individuals who donate every year to make this event so successful. Thanks to Tim Hines, Howard Vulgamore, Bill Wells, George Hines, and Will White for getting all of the boxes of wreaths to the cemetery and to McCollister’s Auto Transport and driver Pete for bringing our wreaths all the way from Maine. Special thanks to Rick Greenwood and his scout troop for presenting the ceremonial wreaths and for Mitch and Dave Porter for playing “Taps.” These guys help us every year, and they are a big part of the ceremony. We were joined this year by Pastor Dan and members of the Westminster Youth Group from Westminster Presbyterian Church in Chester. Thank you for volunteering. For those who are interested in buying a wreath for next year’s ceremony, Wreaths Across America is sponsoring a buy one, get one free promotion until January 17, 2024. The price for each wreath is $17. This is a great time to sponsor a wreath because your donation is doubled. Forms are available at the New Cumberland City Building or by contacting organizer George Hines at 304-670-7092.
Shown in the photo are (l-r) Cubmaster Timothy Bednarzik, Scoutmaster Rick Greenwood, scouts Richard Brew, Chase Kintyhtt, Logan Bednarzik (front) Johnny Bowersox
