By Tanna Friday
For The Tribune
TRUSSVILLE — The sound of freedom rang on Saturday morning as the Alabama Artillery Group fired four cannons during the Wreaths Across America ceremony at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville.
“We must remember, honor, and teach our children the value of freedom,” said veteran Wayne Odell during opening remarks.
Wreaths Across America is part of a nationwide effort by the nonprofit, which places wreaths at more than 1,500 other cemeteries across the country. The annual event, now in its 26th year, honors those who served in the United States Armed Forces, many of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice while fighting.
“Our nation stands as a shining people, liberty and freedom to the world,” said Odell. “We thank those who gave their lives to keep us free. We shall not forget you. We shall remember.”
The laying of the wreaths was presented by each branch of service: Army (Master Sergeant Christerfer Galbusieri), Navy (Petty Officer Juan Waggoner), Marine Corps (Sergeant Christopher P. McGhee), Air Force Tech Sergeant Justin Riker), Coast Guard (Sea Cadet Faith Burns), Merchant Marines (Rick Henderson) and POW and MIA (Robert Trice and Ron Becker).
Trussville Boy Scouts Troop 216 assisted families with placing wreaths at grave sites.
Donations from individuals and corporations have helped the wreath laying take place every year. For more information, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.
One Comment
Rolanda Morris Daws
Did they put a wreath on every vets grave in that area?