Wreaths recognizes soldiers
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Cub Scout Flynn Reeves places a wreath on a veteran’s grave at Wreaths Across America on Saturday, Dec. 16, at Oak Ridge Memorial Park. See story and more photos on Page 11A - Pete Gwada
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The graves of Peter and Mavis Kohler were among the 1,230 at Oak Ridge Memorial Park that were decorated on Saturday, Dec. 16, as part of Wreaths Across America. - Pete Gwada
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State Rep. John Ragan was one of the speakers at the Wreaths Across America ceremony held Saturday, Dec 16, at Oak Ridge Me- morial Park. - Pete Gwada
“A day of remembrance for those who sacrificed a portion or all of their lives,” is how Tennessee Lt. Gov. Randy McNally described the Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday at Oak Ridge Memorial Park.
McNally was one of the speakers at the event where several hundred volunteers representing military veterans’ organizations, high school cadets, churches, Cub Scout packs and interested citizens placed wreaths on 1,230 graves of military veterans.
Wreaths Across America is a volunteer organization that each year places Christmas wreaths on veterans’ graves all over the U. S. Last year, 2.7 million wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves at 3,702 participating locations.
State Rep. John Ragan said the participants were giving “gifts of gratitude and remembrance” by honoring those who put “service to others before self, not counting the cost.”
Ragan urged the audience to follow their example.
“Their sacrifices deserve remembrance,” said Oak Ridge City Councilman Chuck Hope, who was filling in for Mayor Warren Gooch.
“We thank those who gave their lives for our freedom, and we shall never forget.”said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Nicholls. “We show a united front of gratitude as we honor the fallen.”