letter to the editor

Wreaths Across America

Mon, 12/18/2017 - 10:45am

Dear Editor:

George and I are so honored and thankful to have been a part of Wreaths Across America at the Florida National Cemetery here in Bushnell, Florida. Over 12,000 people and 37,000 wreaths; an experience we will remember and cherish forever. There are over 100,000 veteran graves in this cemetery so they have a way to go to get a wreath on every site, but it's certainly not due to lack of enthusiasm. The patriotism and camaraderie was palpable. There was no kneeling here.

From the first sight of the 18-wheelers rolling in, to the impressive ceremony, to the chill of placing a wreath, to the awestruck goosebumps as you view the thousands of stones with the wreaths, it is a humbling experience. Freedom is certainly not free. We are so blessed to live in this country and to have the freedoms we enjoy. The spirit that was in this cemetery today is what we should be teaching our children and grandchildren. I was happy to see all the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and other youth groups. Proud to see all the veterans, both those affiliated with biker clubs (loved all the colors and leather) and those who were not. Proud to see families escorting veteran members. I shed a tear or two and my heart is full. The fallen will never be forgotten. And to think it all began in Maine.

George and Cheri Blackman

Formerly of Boothbay

Livingston, Texas