Nearly 100 volunteers turned out for the Wreaths Across America ceremony on Dec. 16 at Albert Cemetery. The local volunteers joined more than two million others for the annual event at more than 4,000 participating locations in all 50 states, at sea and abroad.
American Legion Mountain Post 781 and AdoptVets coordinated the placing of wreaths at graves of veterans at Albert Cemetery in Wright Township and St. Martin-in-the-Field Cemetery in Rice Township. Sue Ellen Engleman, one of the founders of AdoptVets said over 400 wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves at the two cemeteries.
The ceremony at Albert Cemetery opened with remarks by Martine Columbo, commander, American Legion Post 781, a prayer led by post chaplain Ed Baker, and the singing of the National Anthem by Phoenix Davis. Wreaths in recognition of all the branches of the country’s armed forces and those missing in action (MIA) were placed at the entrance to the cemetery. Post vice commander Al Finn concluded the ceremony with the playing of taps.
Volunteers who participated in placing of the wreaths on graves included members of American Legion Post 781, American Legion Post 781 Riders, American Legion Post 781 Auxiliary and Junior Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, Second Brigade Motorcycle Club, Slocum VFW, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and community members.
