Tag Archives: Wreaths Across America

Did You Know? Wreaths Radio Streams 75 Unique Programs 🎙️

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This item from this national organization may be of interest to some members.

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“Every single day, in every walk of life, ordinary people do extraordinary things.”

Coach Jim Valvano

 

Wreaths Across America, as part of the “Teach” pillar of our mission, will host our first annual Lindbergh Crate Day event on Tuesday, May 20, in Maine on the tip lands where balsam is grown and harvested to make veterans’ wreaths.

 

The Lindbergh Crate, used to transport famed aviator and Medal of Honor recipient Charles Lindbergh’s plane, the Spirit of St. Louis, back to the United States from Paris in 1927, was gifted to WAA. The previous owner, Larry Ross, purchased the crate in 1990 and opened a museum on his property in Canaan, Maine, to use as a teaching tool for area youth. His focus was on introducing students to “ordinary people who do extraordinary things.”

 

Larry’s message, like ours, is simple: we all have the ability to do good with what we have. Read Karen Worcester’s full message about the power of purpose, the legacy of service, and the lessons behind Lindbergh Crate Day.
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The Lindbergh Crate Museum Reopens May 20
FullCrateFrontTeach

We’re proud to announce the reopening of the Lindbergh Crate Museum on Tuesday, May 20, with a special “Crate Day” event hosted for local students and the local community as part of our TEACH Program! This exciting event marks a significant moment in preserving and sharing a unique piece of history.
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Register Now: TEACH Webinar

Join us for the second Quarterly Webinar of the 2025 TEACH Program on Tuesday, May 13th at 4PM ET!

 

We’ll be joined by co-host John Fenzel, CEO, The World War II Foundation, Retired Senior Army Special Forces Officer (Green Beret).
Wreaths Across America TEACH Webinar (1)
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Nominations Open: WAA’s Annual Awards
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Wreaths Across America is looking for the best of the best, and you can nominate them today! The mission to remember, honor, and teach requires millions of nationwide volunteers. We want to recognize their hard work and dedication.
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Listen Live: Wreaths Across America Radio

Now that the 2024 wreath sponsorship numbers are in, Wreaths Across America Radio is talking to volunteers and group leaders every day about their efforts!

 

Tune in to hear their stories along with over 75 unique programs related to the Wreaths Across America mission.
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Visit the Mobile Education Exhibit in May
Mobile Education Exhibit MEE

The Mobile Education Exhibit brings communities and our military together with education, stories, and interactive connections. In May, the Mobile Education Exhibit will visit Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas.
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Featured Merchandise

With our new 2025 “Keep Moving Forward” challenge coin on hand, you will always be reminded of this important message and be able to show your support for Wreaths Across America!

 

 
2025 coin
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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

Keep Moving Forward 🇺🇸

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An item from the Wreaths Across America organization that may be of interest to members.

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“Keep moving forward.”

 

That was the last command Capt. Joshua Byers ever gave after an IED struck his vehicle in Iraq. Josh didn’t make it home, but his words saved lives and became a battle cry for his unit. Today, his story represents why our year-long mission is so vital.

 

Michael Barbour, Capt. Byer’s sacrifice – like those of countless other fallen heroes – must never be forgotten. Yet there is a growing disconnect between younger generations and the profound sacrifices of our service members and veterans. His powerful last command reminds us why we must act now.

 

We must ensure our children understand and learn from heroes like Joshua who gave everything so others could live free. His story teaches us about unwavering leadership, sacrifice, and dedication to fellow service members – values that future generations need to learn and embrace.

 

Here at Wreaths Across America, we are committed to doing just that. Through our year-round mission to Remember, Honor and Teach, our efforts focus on showing our nation’s veterans that their service mattered. We do this by sharing their stories on Wreaths Across America Radio. Welcoming Home our Vietnam veterans in communities across the country on the Mobile Education Exhibit. In helping Veteran Service Organizations raise awareness and funding through our Group Sponsorship program.

 

And maybe most important, we honor our nation’s veterans by teaching the next generation the value of freedom and what it means to serve. Through our TEACH program we offer the free resources for anyone wanting to help the youth of their community learn.

 

We hope you will find a way to join us in this yearlong mission. But no matter what, remember to “Keep moving forward.”
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April: Month of the Military Child
Month of Military Child

Did you know? April is the Month of the Military Child.

 

Click on the button below to download our Month of the Military Child Lesson Plans, or learn more about the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC), a TEACH program partner, here.
Browse Curriculum

Military Musicians Showcase: Gary Sinise

We are honored to welcome Gary Sinise to Wreaths Across America Radio for a special edition of our Military Musicians Showcase. Gary will share stories about his late son, Mac, and his musical legacy. During the broadcast, listeners will also have the opportunity to hear Mac’s music.

Tune in on Monday, March 31, at 1 PM to be part of this heartfelt tribute.
Military Musicians Showcase
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Visit the Mobile Education Exhibit in April
Mobile Education Exhibit MEE

The Mobile Education Exhibit brings communities and our military together with education, stories, and interactive connections. In April, the Mobile Education Exhibit will visit Virginia and Massachusetts.
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Featured Merchandise

Get cozy in Wreaths Across America’s Olive Green, Jersey-lined District hoodie!

 

Wear your support of Wreaths Across America with a full-color logo screen printed on the left chest.
Green Hoodie
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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

You’re Invited: Join Us for a Special Flag Waving Tuesday Ceremony 🇺🇸

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An item from the Wreaths Across America organization that may be of interest to members.

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“Every day is an opportunity.” That quote is attributed to several prominent people, perhaps because truer words were never spoken.

 

We see opportunity every day in meeting and listening to the stories of amazing people whose experiences and accomplishments galvanize our commitment to the yearlong mission of Wreaths Across America.

 

I am proud of the dedication and hard work exhibited by our volunteers, sponsors and staff.  I am equally proud of your understanding that we can use the knowledge we gain from those stories to support veterans, active duty and their families, and enlighten those who lives may not have been touched by a loved one who served.

 

I further believe that it is incumbent upon us to show our children through example that with freedom comes responsibility and in doing so we help to insure the future of liberty in America.

 

It is not in the simple act of laying a wreath and speaking a name that we make such a lasting impression on the next generation. It lies in the continued commitment from each of us to see “everyday as an opportunity” and continue to carry out our mission.

 

Remember. Honor. Teach.

Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America
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“If American children are not taught the principles of freedom, America will not be free for very long.” – Michael Farris
 
A Special Flag Waving Tuesday

Every Tuesday morning, we wave the American flag to honor our nation’s heroes. On Tuesday, March 4th, from 10-11 am ET, we will host a special Flag Waving to honor and remember Freeport Flag Lady Joanne Miller, who passed away on February 22nd.

 

Join us in remembering Joanne and help us keep this tradition alive by waving your flag wherever you are! Submit your videos and photos by clicking on the button below.
Elaine G
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Remembering Flying Tiger Line Flight 739
Flying Tiger Line Photo

On Sunday, March 16, Wreaths Across America will pay tribute to the American heroes who selflessly sacrificed their lives aboard Flying Tiger Line Flight 739 (FTLF 739). Join the live broadcast of the ceremony on Facebook or listen on Wreaths Across America Radio.
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You’re Invited: TEACH Webinar
The first TEACH Webinar of 2025 will be held on Tuesday, March 4 at 4pm ET!
This webinar will be co-hosted by Cindy Tatum, Wreaths Across America Curriculum Developer and Gold Star Mother, and Kyra Bush, Vice President of Education Services for the Military Child Education Coalition.
Wreaths Across America TEACH Webinar 2025 Part I
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Visit the Mobile Education Exhibit in March
Mobile Education Exhibit MEE

In March, the Mobile Education Exhibit will visit several locations in North Carolina!
View Upcoming Stops
 

Share Your Story On Wreaths Radio
March 29th is Vietnam Veterans Day. If you are a Vietnam Veteran and want to share your story of service on Wreaths Across America Radio, please request an interview below!
Request An Interview
 

Featured Merchandise

Keep Moving Forward inspired this year’s mission, sharing the story of Joshua Byers—a young man whose life was cut short in service to his country. His words and actions exemplify the values we need in Americans today.

 

This powerful book offers inspiration, meaning, and direction for all who read it. Get the book plus a wreath sponsorship for $28.
KeepMovingForward__49999
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Sponsor Wreaths
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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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Instagram
TikTok
LinkedIn
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Wreaths Across America, PO Box 249, Columbia Falls, ME 04623, United States, 877-385-9504

Keep Moving Forward

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A newsletter from the Wreaths Across America organization.

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Wreaths Across America Day 2024 is in the rear-view mirror, but hardly a day goes by without someone asking me if things have slowed down here at HQ. Most are surprised to hear that we have hit the ground running for 2025 and looking forward to advancing the year-round programs that further our mission.

This year’s theme, ‘Keep Moving Forward,’ is inspired by the last words of Army Capt. Joshua T. Byers and the stories of people who have faced great adversity and then used these life experiences to help others. This theme and their example are the corner stones of outreach for this year.
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Our robust Teach curriculum spear-headed by Gold Star Mother and retired teacher Cindy Tatum features lesson plans for grades Kindergarten through 12th and focuses on materials to stir patriotism in young minds.

 

WAA’s Mobile Education Exhibit (MEE) is a traveling classroom for young and old alike that goes coast to coast  stopping at schools and municipalities. Our MEE team, in conjunction with the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration, has pinned and welcomed home more than 6,000 of our nation’s Vietnam veterans.

 

Wreaths Across America Radio has established itself as the go-to place for veterans and their families to hear about services that are available to the veteran community. Home to over 75 veteran-centric programs Wreath Radio is a prime example of like-minded organizations working together for the greater good.

 

I encourage everyone to visit our website to read about these programs, as well as our upcoming events. For me, and hopefully others, Wreaths Across America is not about one day in December when we place wreaths and say names, but living the mission year-round. So, we never wind down!

 

Motivated by the sacrifices of so many and their passion for patriotism, we Keep Moving Forward and proudly carry out our mission every day.

 

Remember. Honor. Teach.

Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America
 
Wreaths Across America Honors “The Four Chaplains”
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On Monday, Feb. 3rd, Wreaths Across America remembers the 82nd anniversary of the sinking of the U.S.A.T. Dorchester – Join this special event virtually!
 

Listen Live: Wreaths Radio
Mission Matters Radio

Wreaths Across America’s Executive Director Karen Worcester recently spoke with Bill Kaemmer, Executive Director of The Four Chaplains. In this interview, Bill shares the heroic actions of four military chaplains on the SS Dorchester on February 3rd, 1943. Click on the button below to listen, or listen to Wreaths Radio any time here.
 

Download Our Latest TEACH Curriculum

Did you know? Wreaths Across America shares free educational resources for learners of all ages!

 

From timely curriculum such as Black History Month Lesson Plans to evergreen resources like our Live with Purpose Action Plans, there’s something for everyone.
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Visit the Mobile Education Exhibit in February
Mobile Education Exhibit MEE

In February, the Mobile Education Exhibit will visit Arizona and New Mexico!

 

Click here to learn more about the Mobile Education Exhibit or submit a request for it to come to your community in 2025.
 

Featured Merchandise

Enjoy your tea or coffee in comfortable style with our 15 oz. Two-Tone Ceramic Mug with WAA logo on both sides!

 

Find eye-catching dynamic contrast on this two-tone ceramic mug with a textured, speckled bottom and a black glazed top.
Mug
 
 

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

Keep Moving Forward: Wreaths Across America’s 2025 Theme

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A notice from the Wreaths Across America organization.

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Dear Michael Barbour,

On behalf of the Wreaths Across America organization and our family of volunteers and supporters, I want to thank YOU for supporting the mission to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.

 

Together, we honored just over THREE million service members at 4,909 participating locations nationwide with the help of 7,566 sponsorship groups. Of these, 784 are new locations this year, with 353 ceremony-only locations and 4,556 locations placing sponsored wreaths. At Arlington National Cemetery, where this all began, more than 260,000 veterans’ wreaths were placed by 32,000 volunteers on a truly gorgeous day.

 

I have been reflecting on this year’s theme—Live with Purpose—and I hope each of you will carry it forward as a mindset in your daily lives. Throughout 2024, we learned stories of those living with purpose and focusing on service attributes, as described in the poem my husband Morrill wrote all those years ago for Gold Star parents, Mary and Lloyd Byers.
Live with Purpose Final

This poem describes the attributes that make up a veteran’s wreath (and those who serve our country) that inspired the 2024 theme. It is only fitting that the theme for 2025 should reflect this same spirit, a call to action for our volunteers and supporters in the communities they serve. Mary and Lloyd’s son, Captain Joshua Byers, was the Company Commander of Fox Troop in the 2/3ACR service in Iraq in 2003 when an IED struck his Humvee. As the smoke filled the air, Josh gave a last command to his driver to “Keep Moving Forward.” Though Josh didn’t make it home, this command saved lives and became a battle cry for his unit and family.

 

I am proud to announce this as the theme for 2025. There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities and a country, but we must keep moving forward together. We look forward to sharing not only the Byers’ story of resilience but so many others who continue to live with purpose every day, and keep moving forward.

 

Thank you all for taking the time during this busy season to join us in letting veterans and military families know that their service and sacrifice are both seen and appreciated and that they are not alone in their loss.

 

With gratitude,
Karen Worcester
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Share Your Wreaths Day Photos!
waa share photos

We want to see your photos from National Wreaths Across America Day!

 

Click on the link below to share your photos.
Share Photos

Matching Campaign

Through Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 – all wreaths sponsored through a registered WAA Sponsorship Group will be matched by HQ for placement on next year’s National Wreaths Across America Day – Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025!
Wreath Match 2-1
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Visit the Mobile Education Exhibit in January
Mobile Education Exhibit MEE

In January, the Mobile Education Exhibit will make several stops in Arizona!

 

Click here to learn more about the Mobile Education Exhibit or submit a request for it to come to your community in 2025.
View Upcoming Stops

Featured Merchandise

Add our new American flag Camouflage Hat to your collection!

 

It has the American flag on the brim and the Wreaths Across America logo on a genuine leather patch.
NEW! American flag Camouflage Hat
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Sponsor Wreaths

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:
Facebook
LinkedIn
X
Instagram
TikTok
Wreaths Across America, PO Box 249, Columbia Falls, ME 04623, United States, 877-385-9504