Fort Riley, in conjunction with the State of Kansas, Fourth District, Veterans of Foreign Wars and VFW Auxiliary, conducted a virtual Wreaths Across America ceremony Saturday, Dec. 18, at the Fort Riley Post Cemetery. The public was able to watch the ceremony via social media at www.Facebook.com/FortRiley.
Maj. Gen. D. A. Sims, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley, spoke of the pride he felt to be a part of this campaign. “Today, I am proud to be an American, to be in this cemetery with these extraordinary Americans who make this happen each year and to be a part of this group that lays wreaths as we commemorate the fallen. This is the second time I’ve been able to do this here at Fort Riley. My family and I did it a number of times at Arlington National Cemetery. I am proud to represent 1 ID and Fort Riley to be here today with this extraordinary group of people.”
Service representatives then placed ceremonial wreaths for each of the armed forces, Merchant Marines, Gold Star families and POWs/MIAs. After the ceremony, volunteers placed wreaths on individual military service members’ gravesites.
Wreaths Across America holds simultaneous observances in more than 1,400 locations in all 50 states and 24 national veteran cemeteries on foreign soil. The organization’s motto is “Remember, Honor, Teach.” The intent is to remember fallen U.S. veterans, honor those who serve and teach children the value of freedom. This year’s theme is “Live up to their legacy.” Fort Riley has co-hosted this event since 2007.