Signal Hill DAR partnering with Wreathes Across America Dec. 17

"You don't have to be in military service to serve your community and country," said Karen Worcester, executive director, Wreaths Across America. "Serving others, or being in service to others, gives purpose."

In 2021, more than 2.4 million veterans' wreaths were placed by volunteers on headstones at 3,137 participating locations around the country in honor of the service and sacrifices made for our freedoms, with each name said out loud.

Wreaths Across America volunteers work year-round to ensure military laid to rest are remembered, their families and living veterans are honored, and the next generation is taught about the value of freedom.

"Every person has something to give, whether it is their time, ideas, compassion, or resources," Worcester added. "What can seem like the simplest act or gift, can start a nationwide movement."

This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will be Saturday, Dec. 17. It is a free event and open to all as a patriotic memorial event.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Barrington-based Signal Hill Chapter, NSDAR, will partner with Wreaths Across America to lay wreaths on Dec. 17 at Evergreen Cemetery, 610 S. Dundee Ave. in Barrington.

A brief memorial assembly will be held at noon, followed by wreath laying on more than 750 marked Veteran graves in the cemetery. The event is free and open to all who wish to participate.

You may find a way to serve by sponsoring a wreath for a Veteran at Evergreen Cemetery for only $15 at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ILEGCA. You may also serve as a wreath laying volunteer by registering at the same website.

Wreaths Across America remembers the fallen, honors those that serve and their families, and teachES the next generation about the value of freedom. These goals dovetail into NSDAR's commitment to patriotism, historic preservation, and education. Together, we all find a way to serve.