JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — 21,000 veterans are being honored at the Jacksonville National Cemetery on Saturday for National Wreaths Across America Day.
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Across the nation, wreaths are placed on the graves of veterans to honor them during the holiday season.
According to the organization, 4,200 locations participated across America this year.
The Jacksonville event began at 6:45 a.m. when shuttles for remote parking began.
At 9:30 a.m., the wreaths arrived at the cemetery and volunteers began to stage them.
Families were able to place wreaths on their loved one’s graves before the official ceremony.
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At noon, a moment of silence was held at each site across the country.
The public was invited to place the remaining wreaths at 1 p.m.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan spoke at the ceremony.
She posted the following statement on social media:
“Wreaths Across America a day to honor our fallen heroes, remember their sacrifices, and teach future generations the value of freedom through the act of laying wreaths on veterans’ graves. Let’s carry these brave men and women in our heart, mind, and spirit – today and always.”
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