Crystal Lake Honors Veterans with Wreaths Across America Ceremony

The city of Crystal Lake will commemorate its veterans on December 13, 2023, by participating in the national Wreaths Across America initiative. This annual event will see wreaths placed on the headstones of veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice. The ceremony will commence at 11 a.m. at Union Cemetery, located at 150 West Woodstock Street.

The William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 is collaborating with local organizations, including VFW Post 12014, the Marine Corps League, the Veterans Assistance Commission, and Veterans Path to Hope, as well as the city itself, to facilitate this significant tribute. All community members are invited to attend the ceremony and show their support.

Ceremony Details and Community Involvement

During the event, Post Commander Charlie Morgan will welcome attendees, and Crystal Lake Mayor Haig Haleblian will deliver a brief address. The ceremony will include the recognition of Gold Star families, after which a bell will be rung, and the names of veterans who lost their lives in conflict will be read aloud. This solemn moment allows attendees to reflect and express gratitude for the sacrifices made by these individuals.

Local Boy Scout Troop #165 will assist in laying the wreaths, adding a community touch to the proceedings. This collaborative effort aims to not only honor veterans but also to instill the values of remembrance and respect in younger generations.

A Tradition Rooted in History

The origins of Wreaths Across America trace back to Morrill Worcester, who, as a young paperboy, was profoundly impacted by a trip to Arlington National Cemetery. In 1992, he utilized a surplus of wreaths to honor veterans at Arlington, inspired by his childhood experience. With support from former Maine Senator Olympia Snowe, Worcester organized the first wreath-laying ceremony in Arlington, which laid the groundwork for the establishment of Wreaths Across America in 2007.

Today, Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to remembering the fallen, honoring those who serve, and teaching future generations about the importance of freedom. In 2023, the organization and its network of volunteers placed over 3 million veterans’ wreaths at 4,225 locations across the United States and beyond.

For those interested in participating in this year’s event, there are opportunities to volunteer or sponsor wreaths. Detailed information and registration can be found at wreathsacrossamerica.org. The cemetery code for Crystal Lake is ILCLUC, and the American Legion Post 171 code is IL0324P. To learn more about the William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171, visit LegionCrystalLake171.org.

This ceremony not only honors the brave service of veterans but also reinforces the community’s commitment to remembering and teaching the values that define the nation.