Wreaths Across America gives Americans an opportunity to remember and honor fallen heroes by donating and volunteering to place wreaths on veterans’ graves. Bellaire JROTC sponsors the wreath-laying ceremony that will take place on Dec. 19 across the country. This event brings together families of fallen soldiers with future soldiers that will one day follow in their footsteps. 

“I’ve learned a lot about the importance of honoring fallen veterans as well as active veterans,” Battalion Commander and senior Jason Ridenbaugh said. “Wreaths Across America does not only give you the opportunity to support veterans, but it also gives you the opportunity to truly understand and experience what it is like to engage in a ceremony that commemorates our heroes. Wreaths Across America teaches everyone about this importance through the emotional response it triggers, and it leaves a lasting memory of helping out something greater than thyself.” 

Due to COVID-19, this event will most likely occur virtually. 

“This fundraiser is much more difficult to do online because it’s harder to reach out to Cadets and display the importance of this fundraiser,” Ridenbaugh said. Trying to contact cadets and students to alert them about this event will take increased effort and communication, but Ridenbaugh still hopes to attend this event in-person.

JROTC will still collect donations for the wreaths. Students, teachers and their families can donate or volunteer at https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/160234. Faculty and students can learn more about this event at https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/.