MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WTVM) – Alabama had a special ceremony ahead of the 16th annual Wreaths Across America Day, when volunteers place live wreaths on headstones of fallen veterans at more than 4,000 locations across America on Saturday, December 14.
Inside the Alabama State Capitol, earlier in the week, people gathered for a time to honor our nation’s veterans and active military and their families.
“We honor them and their families for sacrifices they make each day to keep our country safe from terrorism, hatred and injustice,” Blue Star Salute Foundation President Tom Long said.
Brigadier General Jeffrey Newton, Alabama Dept. of Veterans Affairs interim Commissioner, said, “The price of freedom is not free. It is paid for by the service of those who served and by the families who supported them.”
At the center of the event was a wreath with flags representing each branch of the military, and a POW/MIA flag will be on display at the Alabama Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Alabama State Capitol. Leaders in Montgomery say it is a way to show the sacrifices made will never be forgotten.
“It represents a person, a life, a story, a legacy of courage and sacrifice,” BG Newton added.
“It embodies a profound love and respect for all who have worn America’s uniform in times of battle and in peace,” Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said at the event. “Nearly 100 Alabama cemeteries have already registered to host wreath-laying ceremonies Saturday.”
Governor Ivey says over 12,000 wreaths will be laid in the Alabama National Cemetery for “Wreaths Across America.”
She added, “We can never repay those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. During this Christmas season and throughout the year, we can pause to show them. Our appreciation.”
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Publish date : 2024-12-14 00:00:00
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