Delaware Legislature to host Wreaths Across America Dec. 12
The Delaware General Assembly will host a Wreaths Across America ceremony at 11:30 a.m., Monday, Dec. 12. The public is invited. State House ceremonies in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., are part of a week-long celebration of America's veterans and their service to the country, with a particular focus on family during the holidays.
Volunteers conduct the ceremonies each year in their state capitols; the program’s mission is Remember, Honor, Teach. "This nationwide program is about remembering our fallen heroes, honoring those who serve and teaching our children about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families to preserve our freedoms," said Lori Christiansen, event coordinator. The originator of the wreath-laying program was Morrill Worcester, owner of a wreath-making company in Maine who in 1991 donated and delivered wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery to be placed on the graves of the fallen.
Col. Ethan Griffin, wing commander of the 436 Airlift Wing, Dover AFB, will offer remarks. A large wreath honoring all five branches of the armed forces will be placed at the base of the Delaware Continentals Statue. Additional wreaths will be laid at five locations on the grounds of Legislative Hall, at the Gulf War Memorial, the Dover Light Infantry Memorial, the World War II Memorial and the Medal of Honor Memorial. This year a wreath will also be placed at the Korean and Vietnam POW/MIA memorial on the corner of Legislative Avenue and Loockerman Street. Dave Skocik, president of the Delaware Veterans Coalition, will provide welcoming remarks and act as the master of ceremonies.
"The simple act of laying these wreaths will honor their legacies and serve as a visible reminder of their sacrifices," said state Rep. Earl Jaques, D-Glasgow, chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee.
Delaware Sen. Bruce C. Ennis, D-Smyrna, chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, said, "Delaware is proud to participate in the Wreaths Across America Program at its capital in Dover. The mission is to remember, honor and teach, by laying wreaths at the capitals in all 50 states, as well as at Arlington and all veterans cemeteries."
