Each year, on National Wreaths Across America Day, millions of Americans come together to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families, and teach the next generation about the value of freedom. Gatherings take place in local and national cemeteries in all 50 states. Each year, a new theme is chosen to help volunteers and supporters focus their messaging and outreach in their own communities. The theme for 2022 is "Find a Way to Serve."
The inspiration for this year's theme came from a few different places, including the American Rosie Movement, whose mission is to find and capture the stories of the World War II-era women known as Rosie the Riveters, or simply Rosies. The movement encourages youths to get involved in their own communities to serve in small ways that can make a big impact. As part of this new theme, Wreaths Across America is revamping its educational curriculum working with the American Rosie Movement and other organizations to develop action plans to inspire young people across the country to find a way to serve in 2022 and beyond.
In 2021, more than 2.4 million veterans' wreaths were placed by volunteers on headstones at 3,136 participating locations around the country in honor of the service and sacrifices made for people's freedoms. As each wreath was placed, the veteran's name was said out loud. Wreaths Across America volunteers work year-round to ensure military laid to rest are remembered, their families and living veterans are honored, and the next generation is taught about the value of freedom.
This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will take place on Saturday, Dec. 17. The free event is open to all people. For more information on how to volunteer locally or sponsor a wreath, visit http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. To follow stories focused on the 2022 theme throughout the year, search for #FindAWay2022 on social media.
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