Organizations place wreaths at veterans graves

Four area organizations were represented in observance of Wreaths Across America at Montana Veterans’ Home Cemetery. 

Annual observance took place simultaneously at veterans cemeteries and other locations throughout the United States on Dec. 15.

Wreaths were sold by members of Glacier Chapter of the Sons of American Revolution and Bird Woman Falls Chapter of the Daughters of American Revolution to assist the nonprofit Wreaths Across America project. Members of the Patriot Guard and the Christian Motorcycle Association also participated in placing the wreaths at Columbia Falls.

One wreath was taken to Woodlawn Cemetery to place on Pfc. Nicholas Scott Cook’s grave site. He was killed at Dar Sar, Konar Province, Afghanistan, in 2010. Pfc. Cook, 19, a Columbia Falls High School graduate, was awarded the Silver Star for his action. It was noted that he was one of the most recent Montanans to answer his final call.

Wreaths Across America was founded in 1992 to continue and expand annual wreath laying at Arlington National Cemetery. Their mission is to remember, honor and teach. State House ceremonies for Wreaths Across America are reported to take place in all 50 states. Organization has expanded and includes special programs for youths.

Another organization, HART — Honoring Allies and Remembering Together — is also active.

Long lists of donors to Wreaths Across America include Elks, Masons, VFW, American Legion and Allied Veterans of World Wars.

Wreath laying ceremonies are scheduled for Dec. 14, 2013.

Gladys Shay is a longtime resident and columnist for the Hungry Horse News.