Volunteering with Wreaths Across America as a Veteran

With the holidays approaching, many of us start to think about ways we can give back. This season, I’m excited to share my experience volunteering with Wreaths Across America—a meaningful organization that places wreaths on the graves of veterans across the country to honor their service. As a veteran myself, volunteering with Wreaths Across America has a special place in my heart. It's one of those experiences that’s both humbling and uplifting, and I hope my story inspires you to join this beautiful tradition!

What is Wreaths Across America?

If you're new to Wreaths Across America, let me fill you in! This nonprofit organization began with one heartfelt mission: to remember and honor our veterans by placing wreaths on their graves each December. The event has grown over the years, now taking place at over 2,500 locations nationwide! It’s a stunning way to show our respect, teach younger generations about the value of sacrifice, and bring people together to support our fallen heroes.

Why This Means So Much as a Veteran

As a veteran, volunteering with Wreaths Across America feels deeply personal. The camaraderie of military service sticks with you, even years after leaving active duty. When I’m out there placing a wreath, I’m reminded of the men and women who walked similar paths, who laughed, cried, and ultimately gave their all. It’s humbling, and honestly, it’s healing, too.

Each wreath I lay feels like a small way of saying, Thank you; you’re not forgotten. It’s not just a symbol—it’s a moment of pause, reflection, and respect.

Getting Involved: How to Volunteer with Wreaths Across America

One thing I absolutely love about Wreaths Across America is that anyone can get involved! Whether you’re a veteran, family member, or just someone wanting to give back, there’s a place for you. Here’s how to join in:

Visit their Website – Head to Wreaths Across America and find a location near you. You’ll see plenty of options, whether it’s your local cemetery or a major national cemetery like Arlington.
Sponsor a Wreath – If you can’t attend in person, you can still participate by sponsoring a wreath! Each sponsorship helps cover the cost of the wreaths, and knowing your support is part of that display of honor is incredibly rewarding.
Join the Placement Ceremony – Volunteers gather on a designated Saturday in December, and trust me, this event is so moving. You’ll receive a wreath, find the assigned grave, and place the wreath with care. Some people choose to say a few words, like the veteran's name or a simple "thank you." It’s a beautiful reminder that their legacy lives on.

A Few Tips for First-Time Volunteers

For those of you who are new to volunteering with Wreaths Across America, here are a few little tips to make the experience even better:

Bring Warm Layers – It’s December, and while the wreaths are evergreen, we are not! 😉 Dress warm and wear comfy shoes, especially if you're at a big cemetery. You’ll be walking around, so layers are key.
Get There Early – The event gets popular! Arriving a bit early ensures you’ll find parking and have time to soak in the atmosphere before the ceremony begins.
Bring a Friend or Family Member – Volunteering together creates such special memories. I love bringing friends along or, even better, my kids—they get to learn about service and honor from a young age.

Why You Should Consider Volunteering This Season

Volunteering with Wreaths Across America is more than an act of service; it’s a reminder that we’re all part of something bigger. As a veteran, I find that it helps keep me connected to those who came before me, those serving now, and even those who may serve in the future. Plus, it’s a gentle way to support and uplift families who have lost loved ones. I always leave with a sense of peace and gratitude, knowing I’ve played a small part in keeping these legacies alive.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to make this holiday season even more meaningful? I can’t recommend volunteering with Wreaths Across America enough. It’s a heartwarming way to honor our veterans, and it might just become a cherished tradition in your family, too.

Wreaths Across America is one of those experiences that stays with you. It’s about honoring, remembering, and coming together as a community. If you’re a veteran, it’s a powerful way to pay tribute to the legacy you’re a part of, and if you’re a supporter, it’s a beautiful gesture of gratitude for those who have served.

Thank you for reading, and I hope to see you out there this December! Together, we can make sure our heroes are never forgotten. 🌟