Wreaths Across America ceremony honors 592 veterans in Carrollton

More than 100 volunteers braved the cold and approaching winter storm for local veterans during Wreaths Across America Day Dec. 13 at Westview Cemetery. This was the third time such an event has been held in Carrollton.

Local Wreaths Across America representatives Kimberly Boring Berry and Emilie Boring Ayers kicked off the ceremony by welcoming attendees and noting longtime supporter and volunteer Bo Grace was unable to attend due to winter storm preparations.

Ayers explained the national scope of Wreaths Across America, noting that more than 2 million wreaths were being placed that day at over 5,600 locations nationwide. Locally, 592 veterans were honored in Carrollton. A moment of silence was observed to remember the more than 8,100 prisoners of war and service members missing in action, as well as to honor those currently serving.

“Every year, millions of veterans are resting quietly, without loved ones to visit their resting place or to say their name,” Ayers said.

A prayer was delivered by Marty Martin, a United States Marine, giving thanks for the nation, its freedoms and the service of veterans past and present. The prayer emphasized unity, gratitude and the responsibility to teach future generations the nation’s history and the value of service.

The Carrollton School choir performed the Pledge of Allegiance and “God Bless America.”

Community veterans participated in the placement of ceremonial wreaths, each representing a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and those missing in action. Those participating included: a United States Army wreath placed by Bill Wohlwend; a United States Marine Corps wreath placed by Marty Martin; a United States Navy wreath placed by Fred Barnett; a United States Air Force wreath placed by Ricky Dixon; a United States Coast Guard wreath placed by Jeff Henry; a United States Merchant Marines wreath placed by Denny Hoobler; a United States Space Force wreath placed by a Boy Scout; and a POW/MIA wreath placed by Dr. Mandal Haas, honoring service members missing from past conflicts.

Following the ceremonial placements, “Taps” was played, marking a solemn moment of remembrance.

Participants were given instructions on proper wreath placement, including positioning the red bow at the 12 o’clock position and placing the wreath above the veteran’s headstone. Attendees were encouraged to say the veteran’s name aloud and thank them as each wreath was placed.

Families who had pre-ordered grave-specific wreaths were invited forward first. In total, 72 families participated, honoring 72 veterans with individual wreath placements.

After family placements were completed, volunteers placed the remaining wreaths throughout the cemetery, including along roadways and across multiple sections of the grounds, concluding Carrollton’s third Wreaths Across America observance. Wreaths were also placed in Grandview Cemetery.