Each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, groups across the globe coordinate with wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as over 1,100 additional locations in all of the 50 U.S. states, at sea, and abroad.
Locally, here in Hawaii, the kids and I partnered with Wreaths Across America to fill our Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific with beautiful, live wreaths.
It was such an incredible way to remember, honor and pay respect to those who have served before us. Being in a military family, this was an event that brought along with it many emotions. We each were given a beautiful, live wreath with a vibrant red bow. We chose our spot, knelt down and I read the names and dates to the kids. We spent a moment in silence…and then we each prayed for the person represented by the wreath we had.
This event takes place shortly after the anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor here on Oahu. This put an even more special aspect to the atmosphere that day. Seeing so many men and women in uniform participating made this event so honest and so very real…
It was seeing so many of these gravestones marked “unknown US Soldier”, that brought up the most emotion…
After paying our respects, we turned around to leave and had this view as a memory we will hold in our hearts forever.
Although the wreaths were just a symbol of our love and respect for those buried below, we will never forget their ultimate sacrifice and will be forever grateful.
I know the kids and I will participate again this December. If you would like to make a donation to this event scheduled for December 16, 2017, please do so here: https://wreaths.fastport.com/donateLocation.html?page=18158&relate=15672
With Aloha,
Lacy
Click here to see how others responded to today’s word prompt: Bury
Adventures of a Busy Mom 
That’s such a beautiful thing to do and the wreaths are beuatiful too. ❤
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Very few moments in my life make me feel the way I did that day!
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Ma’am , As a veteran myself I greatly appreciate the fact that you not only honour the comrades who fell in the past , but also pass the tradition to your children. I understand that you are an Army spouse and that encompasses so many sacrifices in itself to support your man in uniform. May God greatly bless your family.
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Thank you! And, thank YOU for your service as well! I have so much respect for every man and woman in uniform no matter the branch. I’ve always said, it takes them all working together to accomplish the same ultimate goal. The families behind them sacrifice so much as well. I see it every day with my children. We are actually Navy but I sincerely appreciate your comments 🙂
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I love this! I too am very involved with this cause at our National Cemetery in Phoenix. It’s both beautiful and moving. Say their names…
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I’m so glad you’ve been able to experience this too! It is amazing!
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Awe, thank you for sharing! I think of this experience every time I see a Christmas Wreath. We will be participating again this year!
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Lacy…do you still plan to go to Wreaths Across America on the 16th? If so, I have a favor. And it is OK to say no. The family I sponsor through Snowball Express has only been without their husband/dad for 18 months. (I think). Prior to deployments, they had agreed if anything happened to him, he would be buried in Hawaii, because he was afraid if near home my friend would spend all her time at the cemetery. Anyway, he is there. IF you go, will you search his name and be sure a wreath is placed on it. And maybe send me a photo to send her and the two boys. They are very spiritual and to know you said a prayer would be such a gift during this Christmas Season. Please don’t feel like you have to , but if you were there, or even if you go later in the week when the crowds are gone, it would be the kindest possible gift to my friend Nona. Thank you.
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Yes! We are going on Saturday! There are so many names. Do you know if there is a way to search for him before I go? I would love to try to find him for you! Do you want to email me the name? theadventuresofabusymom@gmail.com
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ok. I will email you everything you need to know.
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I got your email 🙂 I replied this morning!
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