2,200 people gathered at the Northern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery for the 5th Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony Saturday. Ryan Burrows became emotional when he laid a wreath on the grave of a U.S. veteran. “That's what Christmas is all about. Giving gifts to other people. I feel like that is what we've done. Given gifts to the fallen,” said Burrows.
On Saturday 8,349 wreaths were laid on the graves of soldiers at the veteran's cemetery in Fernley. This tradition is taking place at cemeteries all over the country as part of the event known as Wreaths Across America. Like many of those who participating, Burrows doesn't know the person to who he's giving the decoration. Yet the act connects with him on a personal level.
“My father served. So it just makes me so happy to see people who have served our country and helped us be free. I don't know it just makes me so happy,” said Burrows.
For many of the people who attended, it was important that children were taught to honor the sacrifices of the armed forces. The laying of these wreaths helps with the remembrance...
“It's important that people remember what the services have done for our freedoms and the things that we can do now because of those soldiers’ actions,” said Wreaths Across America participant Randy Folk.
“It’s just so they understand that it is important that we pay tribute to those who served. So they honor an important part of our country,” said participant Don Speth. Wreaths Across America first was held at the Northern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery back in 2007. There were only 28 wreaths laid at that time. 11 years later every grave received a wreath. That sight hit home for the soldiers and veterans who come to the cemetery. “It makes me feel very prideful. I'm still shaking just to be able to be out here,” said Marine Corporal Pat Branagan.
Last year, 6-thousand of the wreaths did not arrive in time for the ceremony. This year however, all the wreaths arrived on time.
