LEXINGTON, Ky. — It’s a holiday reveille call that pays tribute this holiday season to all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom.

What You Need To Know

  • Hundreds of volunteers gathered at Lexington National Cemetery in Fayette County for Wreaths Across America Day 

  • About 1,500 veterans are buried at the cemetery 

  • Those in attendance paid respects to those who fought for our country but are no longer with us 

  • Wreaths Across America relies on the generosity of sponsors to offset the cost of each wreath

"Today is our second time laying wreaths for Wreaths Across America at Lexington National Cemetery," said Patrick Wesolosky, Lafayette Chapter Kentucky Society Sons of the American Revolution. "It's a national cemetery with about 1,500 veterans in it, within the 70,000 people that are interned."

Hundreds of volunteers gathered at Lexington National Cemetery in Fayette County to pay respects to those who fought for our country but are no longer with us.

"Today, we remember that we are one nation under one flag," said Ret. Gen. Charles Gorton. "By holding this ceremony, we honor those who served and those who still serve, willing to risk their lives so that we can live in a free society made up with many people, many races and many walks of life."

Last year, more than 3 million sponsored veterans wreaths were placed on the headstones of more than 4,200 participating locations worldwide.

"I do think it's very important to remember all the people who fought to give us our freedoms," said volunteer Terry Oplas. 

"I've experienced Vietnam, lost a lot of friends and I still continue to support 'em and love them," said volunteer Jerry Walling. 

Tim Brown, Lafayette Chapter Kentucky Society Sons of the American Revolution, said the wreaths are far more than mere adornments. They're symbols of gratitude and reverence.

"Each bio speaks to the enduring legacy of those who answered the call to defend the freedoms we cherish," Brown said.

Wreaths Across America relies on the generosity of sponsors to offset the cost of each wreath while volunteers make sure that each grave gets a wreath and a heartfelt "thank you" for their service.

"Every grave is going to have a wreath, and that is just because the community of Lexington has bought into it," Wesolosky said. "They support us, and we could not be more thankful."

Learn about Wreaths Across America's mission to remember, honor and teach. 

Related Stories