Shiloh National Cemetery participating in Wreaths Across America Day
Wreaths at Shiloh National Cemetery On Dec 14, Shiloh National Cemetery is participating in the national Wreaths Across America day. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. in the National Cemetery.
“The laying of wreaths on the graves of honored dead has been done since the time of ancient Greece,” said park Superintendent Dale Wilkerson. “The circular shape of the wreath represents eternity, for it has no beginning and no end, and the greenery represents everlasting life. Laying a wreath is an act of remembrance for someone’s life and service, and we invite everyone to come and help place the wreaths.”
The nonprofit Wreaths Across America organization was founded by Morrill Worcester of Harrington, Maine.
At the age of 12, Worcester visited Arlington National Cemetery and it was an experience he would never forget. Decades later, in 1992, he sent his company’s surplus of 5,000 wreaths to be placed at Arlington, and he continued sending wreaths every year.
In 2005, a photo of the stones at Arlington, adorned with wreaths and covered in snow, circulated around the internet. Suddenly, the project received national attention.
Today the event has expanded to the placement of over 1.2 million wreaths in over 1,400 locations across the nation.
Following the ceremony, everyone in attendance will be invited to come forward and assist with laying the wreaths on the graves. In case of rain, the ceremony will be held in the Visitor Center auditorium.
