Decision to cancel annual wreath-laying quickly reversed.
Arlington National Cemetery had decided to cancel its annual Wreaths Across America program because of the coronavirus. Lawmakers and U.S. military veterans immediately called for them to reconsider.
Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas stated, “I encourage Army leaders to reconsider this decision. Thousands of people have marched in DC streets the past couple of weekends for Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Surely volunteers can responsibly place wreaths on the graves of our fallen heroes at Arlington.”
Representative Dan Crenshaw of Texas, a veteran, also urged that the decision to be reconsidered, stating “Critical thinking must win out over emotion. Large areas, outside and well spaced, with masks on, is perfectly safe. Our fallen deserve to be remembered.”
After the decision had been announced, both President Trump and Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy responded with assurances that the wreath-laying would proceed.
“I have reversed the ridiculous decision to cancel Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery. It will now go on!” President Trump stated.
“I have directed Arlington National Cemetery to safely host Wreaths Across America,” Secretary McCarthy said. “We appreciate the families and visitors who take time to honor and remember those who are laid to rest at our nation’s most hallowed ground.”
Since 1992, volunteers have organized to place green seasonal wreaths on the graves of America’s military. The program, which began at Arlington National Cemetery, has moved across the nation, and the several organizations that were doing it independently have coalesced into Wreaths Across America. Their hope is that one day every veteran’s resting place will be adorned with a wreath.
The wreath-laying is scheduled for December 19 taking place across 2,400 cemeteries.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- With gratitude for the reversal of the decision to cancel the placement of seasonal wreaths.
- For America’s Gold Star families who are blessed by seeing the national cemetery laden with wreaths during the Christmas season.
- For the health of all who will participate in the wreath-laying ceremonies.
Sources: Fox News, CBS News, Washington Examiner
