ST. GEORGE – To show appreciation for those who have served in the United States military and educate others on the meaning of our veterans’ sacrifices, the Color Country Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution will host the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony, Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. at the City of St. George’s Tonaquint Cemetery (1777 S. Dixie Drive).
St. George resident Michelle Gregory, widow of Korean War veteran Eugene Gregory, will be the keynote speaker.
“Every year the Wreaths Across America program inspires and opens the eyes of many who may not fully appreciate what our military veterans have done to earn and preserve our freedom,” said Mayor Michele Randall. “I highly recommend taking the time to watch the Wreaths Across America program and help lay wreaths on veterans graves. I promise it will be a fulfilling experience.”
Since 2010, a Wreaths Across America ceremony has been held at Tonaquint Cemetery in December, followed by wreath laying assisted by scores of volunteers. These wreaths cover the graves of hundreds of military members whose final resting place lies in our cemeteries.
The goal is Wreaths Across America is threefold:
● Remember the fallen.
● Honor those who have served.
● Teach children the value of freedom.
At the conclusion of the wreath laying at Tonaquint Cemetery, St. George Police will escort volunteers to St. George Cemetery (650 East Tabernacle) to lay the balance of remembrance wreaths.
In 2023, a record setting 3-million remembrance wreaths were laid at 4,224 participating locations nationwide.
“This year we will lay 2,300 wreaths on the graves of our veterans buried at both Tonaquint and St. George cemeteries,” said Valerie King, event organizer for the Color Country Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. “We appreciate the help of hundreds of volunteers, and look forward to a big turnout on December 14 at Tonaquint Cemetery.”
Veterans representing each branch of military service covering a wide array of service years — from World War II to the conflicts of the 21st century — are expected to participate in the ceremonial wreath dedication.
About the City of St. George
St. George is the largest city in Washington County and the fifth-largest city in Utah with approximately 100,000 residents. In recent years, people from across the U.S. and Canada have been attracted to St. George’s world class healthcare, active lifestyle, access to university education and proximity to unrivaled recreation. Scenic beauty abounds throughout the city and region including Snow Canyon State Park, Quail Creek and Sand Hollow Reservoirs, and Zion National Park. With an average of about 300 days of sunshine per year, the community welcomes all to live, work, play and eat and experience “The Brighter Side” in St. George, Utah.
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