KINGWOOD — For the third year, members of the Cheat River Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) placed wreaths on the graves of veterans on National Wreaths Across America Day.
DAR member Karen Kurilko said the first year wreaths were placed in Maplewood Cemetery, the second year in the Aurora Cemetery, and this year, she said 336 were placed in Maplewood and 226 in the Aurora Cemetery.
Kurilko said the ceremony was held and the wreaths laid with the help of the Kingwood Rotary Club and the City of Kingwood.
Prior to the laying of the wreaths, Commissioner Don Smith spoke about all veterans.
“There are many men and women serving today in all branches of the military, here at home and in places far away, that most of us have never heard of. These men and women are part of the best trained, best equipped, force in the world. We honor them and their families for the sacrifices they make each day to keep our country safe from terrorism, hatred and injustice.
“Quoting our 40th president, Ronald Reagan, ‘Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.’
“Today, we show a united front of gratitude and respect across the United States of America as we remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.”
The Preston County Honor guard finished the ceremony with a 21-volley salute, and the playing of taps.
For more information or to volunteer or become a member of the Cheat River Chapter of the NSDAR call 202-628-1776 or go to dar.org.
For more information about Wreaths Across America go to wreathsacrossamerica.org/WV0108
