Article Text

More than 30,000 volunteers gathered at Arlington National Cemetery on Dec. 13, placing 265,000 wreaths in a sweeping tribute to fallen service members.

Beginning at 8 a.m., volunteers carried evergreen wreaths with bright red bows through the cemetery’s gates. By midday, gravesites and niche columns across Arlington’s 639 acres had been decorated.

The gathering marked the 34th annual Wreaths Across America Day. Its theme, “Keep Moving Forward,” emphasized resilience and unity.

Military families, veterans’ organizations, Scout troops and civic groups participated despite chilly temperatures. Volunteers were encouraged to say each veteran’s name aloud as they laid a wreath.

“The wreaths laid today serve as a powerful gesture that unites communities, families, and even generations,” Executive Director Karen Worcester said. “When volunteers say the name of a veteran aloud while placing a wreath, it ensures they live on in our hearts and memories.”

A ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier reinforced the organization’s mission to remember, honor and teach.

The Arlington observance was part of a broader effort in which more than 3.1 million wreaths were placed at nearly 5,600 locations, including community cemeteries and memorials overseas.

Preparations included a convoy of 67 trucks carrying thousands of fresh balsam wreaths from Maine. The tradition began in 1992, when Morrill Worcester donated surplus wreaths.

Volunteers are scheduled to return Jan. 10, 2026, for the annual “Wreaths Out” cleanup.

“There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities and a country, but we must keep moving forward together,” Worcester said.