For the last three years this has been the largest wreath laying event in the country. This year will be no different as we strive to lay 59,000 wreaths at the Houston National Cemetery. I hope you will help us get the word out as we honor our American Soldiers…One Wreath At A Time.
Date: December 10, 2011.
“Honoring American Soldiers…One Wreath At A Time” is the motto of Wreaths Across America-Houston (WAAH). In December of 2008, WAAH placed a record-setting 14,400 live wreaths upon the grave sites of fallen heroes at the Houston National Cemetery. Again in 2009, they placed almost 23,000 in honor of the fallen. Last year the group placed an awe inspiring 26,200 wreaths. This year is no different as the all volunteer group works toward the goal of honoring each and every one of the 59,000 fallen heroes with their own wreath.
The mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach is made very personal as volunteers place the beautiful live Maine wreaths upon each grave individually and by hand. Finances for the project come primarily from the general public sending in $15.00 donations (the cost of one wreath), while other donations come from corporations, grants, and fundraising groups. Wreaths Across America-Houston is a 501c3 non-profit organization and the event is open to the public.
The Houston organization was sparked by the questions of a young boy asking why wreaths were not placed in Houston National Cemetery like they were at Arlington National Cemetery. No one foresaw the impact this young boy’s question would have. Scott deMasi, Director of Wreaths Across America=Houston, states “This event provides a connection for those who have lost loved ones to realize that they are not alone. It’s very special, and you leave that day a little different, in a very good way.” Debbie Mangum, WAAH Board Member states “A wreath on a grave isn’t a very big thank you, it is a small gesture of gratitude. It reminds me all year long that so many men and women are willing to sacrifice so much for people they will never meet and a country they love so much!”
To make a donation or get more information, please visit: http://www.waahouston.com
About Wreaths Across America
The Wreaths Across America story began over 17 years ago when Worcester Wreath Company (a for-profit commercial business from Harrington, Maine) began a tradition of placing wreaths on the headstones of our Nation’s fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery during the holidays. Over that period of time, Worcester Wreath has donated 90,000 wreaths which were placed by volunteers in a wreath-laying ceremony each December. But as word spread, the mission to Remember; Honor; and Teach about the sacrifices made by our veterans has captured the hearts and minds of many communities across the Country.
Wreaths Across America – Houston
Phone: (281) 540-9444
4582 Kingwood Dr., #247 Web: www.waahouston.com
Kingwood, TX 77345 E-mail: info@waahouston.com
