Huntsville Volunteers Honor Veterans with Wreath-Laying Holiday Tradition

Huntsville Volunteers Prepare for a Heartwarming Holiday Tradition

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — It’s that joyful time of year again, and in Huntsville, a dedicated group of volunteers is making sure we don’t forget those who served our country. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, preparations are underway for a special holiday project that honors our veterans. In the coming weeks, thousands of beautiful Christmas wreaths will be placed on the graves of local veterans, all thanks to a wonderful initiative called Wreaths for Veterans.

A Heartfelt Idea from One Woman’s Inspiration

The heart and soul behind this initiative is Jennifer Hames, who co-founded the organization after being moved by a wreath-laying ceremony she witnessed at Arlington National Cemetery back in 2006. “It just seemed like the right thing to do, it was just something that kind of hit my heart,” Hames said. Since starting this project in 2007, she has rallied dozens of volunteers each year to prepare for this significant event.

Jennifer believes that laying these wreaths is not just about honoring the fallen, but also about providing comfort and joy to their families during the holidays. “We want to honor not only the deceased veterans but their families, because whether anybody believes it or not, the family serves too,” she explained.

An Impressive Number of Wreaths

This year, the team is gearing up to prepare an impressive 4,000 artificial wreaths. That’s right! Four thousand! What a fantastic way to show gratitude and remembrance. The volunteers will be working hard from Monday through Thursday this week at the Lori Martin Huntsville City Schools Warehouse, located at 3015 12th Avenue SW in Huntsville. They’re there daily from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., and guess what? They’re welcoming everyone who wants to lend a helping hand!

“We are always looking for volunteers; we will never turn you away,” Jennifer stated enthusiastically. So, if you’re looking for a way to give back this holiday season, just show up! It’s a feel-good opportunity that brings the community together in a meaningful way.

The Big Day: Wreath Laying Ceremony

Mark your calendars because the wreaths will be laid at the Military section of Valhalla Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 19. The next day, on Wednesday, November 20, the wreaths will be placed at Maple Hill Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. This act of remembrance will last throughout the holiday season, with plans to collect the wreaths again on January 7 and 8.

How You Can Help

Are you interested in volunteering or supporting this remarkable cause? You can reach out to Jennifer via email at jmwhames@gmail.com for more information. They’re also accepting monetary donations to help procure new wreaths and supplies. If you’d like to send a donation, you can mail it to Wreaths for Veterans at 210 Bell Road NE, Huntsville, AL 35811.

It’s heartwarming to see the community come together for such a noble cause. This holiday season, let’s embrace the spirit of giving and remembrance by supporting the souls who served our nation. After all, the light of joy can shine brightly, not just on the living, but also on the memories of those who have sacrificed so much for us.

So, whether you want to volunteer your time, donate some funds, or simply spread the word, get involved and make a difference. Happy holidays, Huntsville!