Given our branch’s – and particularly our cadet’s – involvement with the Wreaths Across America organization, this item may be of interest to some members.
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Dear Michael Barbour,
Every day at Wreaths Across America, we work to honor the service and sacrifice of our military. We are diligent in sharing stories of their lives to help make a personal connection for those of us who enjoy our freedom at their expense.
Early on in my time as Executive Director I became acutely aware of the challenges not only of the men and women who wear the uniform, but of their families. We all understand that they take an oath to protect our freedom and way of life and stand at the ready, but they also resolve that they and their families will make many sacrifices along the way.
I remember being approached after a speaking engagement by a young couple who wanted me to know that they had attended a ceremony that year in their community. We talked a while and they shared that he was about to be deployed and they would be relocating. They would be moving away from the helping hands of a grandmother, which would be difficult. They counted on her since their little boy had a serious illness. They added that they were certain the military community would be supportive. I relayed my concern for them to my daughter, a military spouse, whose response was, “It’s what we do.” Truer words were never spoken but they beg the question, “What can we do?”
For WAA this awareness of the “home front needs” of Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families has been touch stone in developing ways to work with like-minded organizations who have resources and skills to provide assistance, support and relief.
May has been designated as Military Appreciation Month. And although every month should afford them appreciation, this gesture does encourage everyone to reflect on the enormity of their sacrifices. That includes the daily sacrifice of not being with their loved ones. I read a quote once about the soldier who, although he would do it again, said while in service he missed his babies first steps and his mother’s dying breath.
So back to the question, “what can we do?”
We can embrace the military families and veterans in our communities and see that they receive the support they need. These men and women throughout history have been guardians and protectors of our Country. We can be the caretakers of this liberty by continuing to “find a way to serve” and show the next generation the real cost of Freedom.
Remember – Honor – Teach With gratitude, |
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Karen Worcester Executive Director |
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Upcoming Events with Wreaths Across America Wreaths Across America is excited to share that we will be participating in several impactful and historic events this May in Washington, D.C. – and all are open to the public!
May 11 – 13, the WAA Mobile Education Exhibit will be set up as part of Camp Legacy* – located on the JFK Hockey Fields/West Potomac Park – as part of The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration “Welcome Home!” event on the National Mall. This three-day public event will include formal ceremonies, daily interactive exhibits and entertainment, a dedicated area for Veterans’ Services, and more!
Wreaths Across America Radio will be broadcasting LIVE from the Mobile Education Exhibit throughout the entire event! And we want to hear from you and share your story with our listeners who are unable to be there in person. Please email us here to let us know if you plan to attend so we can schedule time to connect with you in person!
Also happening on Thursday, May 11, 2023, from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm ET, at Thomas Jefferson Building – LJ 119. Wreaths Across America Radio has been invited to broadcast LIVE from the Library of Congress for their important event “Live! at the Library: The War and Peace of Tim O’Brien.” This is a free event, open to the public, however you must register for a ticket to attend. We hope to see you there! |
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Wreaths Radio: Live at the New York State Gold Star Mothers Convention |
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Tune in for coverage Friday, April 27th and Saturday, April 28th, starting at noon on both days. Wreaths Radio will be talking to Gold Star Mothers, partner organizations, and Veterans for this exclusive coverage on Wreaths Across America Radio. Listen live on the iHeartRadio, Audacy, TuneIn App, or on our website by clicking on the button below. |
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Available Now: Memorial Day Lesson Plans |
![TEACH1[1]](https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/z8CUiYU1pBobI8KpHnF9dvj8n1OIHNvRqMQ_QkUHw-AorZNAd_VMiJ35_1q-5QFcsmKAqbPvnZ9odySQ2810BDPaawAeK_MiI1V8oDJZ_kksDJ1CjnBwfTYZ8AhjRsi_r72Jb0bxXZVJfgyMGpo9zxnfNrLVYpsNAGU3gwZz6SntzLH21Q=s0-d-e1-ft#https://learn.wreathsacrossamerica.org/hs-fs/hubfs/TEACH1%5B1%5D.png?width=520&upscale=true&name=TEACH1%5B1%5D.png) |
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The Wreaths Across America TEACH curriculum offers free Memorial Day Lesson Plans where you can learn the history of “Decoration Day” and why the name was changed. How did the poppy become the colorful symbol associated with Memorial Day? It’s all included in our standards-based lesson plans. Check them out by clicking on the button below. |
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Stem To Stone Races |
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You’re invited to Wreaths Across America’s Annual Stem to Stone Races on Saturday, July 29, 2023.
Join us in Columbia Falls, Maine, where the mission of Wreaths Across America will be on display through the 5K Run/Walk/Ruck and 10K Run, or virtually from your own course at home!
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Featured Merchandise |
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Complete your very own scene of wreaths with our new 250 piece WAA Puzzle. |
Make sure to follow Wreaths Across America official channels on social media for the most up-to-the-minute news on the mission throughout the year:
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Wreaths Across America, PO Box 249, Columbia Falls, ME 04623, United States, 877-385-9504 |
Royal Canadian Legion, US Branch #25 