The Wreaths Across Chattanooga Committee has scheduled a kickoff for the 2023 season at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Hixson Walmart. A Presentation of Colors by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 203 color guard is slated for the event.
Wreaths Across Chattanooga is a successful and nationally recognized organization. Last year, Chattanooga was named the number-one wreath fundraising group in the nation. 30,746 wreaths were placed by 2,500 volunteers in the Chattanooga National Cemetery.
“While we were greatly successful in last year’s wreath laying, our goal is still to place a wreath on all 49,000 graves at Chattanooga National Cemetery. In doing so, we are remembering all Chattanooga area veterans who served our country, honoring their lives and teaching others about the value of freedom,” said Mickey McCamish, retired Navy Captain. “We cannot express how appreciative we are of the Hixson Walmart, and many Walmart stores in the area, for supporting us with this goal.”
Though the organization is successful, there is a common, local misconception that U. S. Government funding is provided for wreaths that are placed on graves at Chattanooga National Cemetery. That isn’t the case as Wreaths Across Chattanooga does not receive government assistance for the wreaths, nor is there paid employment involved in these efforts. The organization relies on donations from the community and volunteer help to place wreaths on each grave.
“Assisting with veteran initiatives has been at the forefront of my professional career, especially throughout my years as market manager SE Tennessee of Walmart, and it’s just as important to me now as a member of the Hamilton County Commissioners,” shared Jeff Eversole, District 10 Hamilton County Commissioner. “Working with Wreaths Across Chattanooga is an honor, and it is my goal to ensure their mission of placing a wreath at every grave becomes possible this year. However, this will not happen without help from our community. That is why this kickoff event is so important.”
Wreath sponsorship for 2023 is $10 per wreath and open until Nov. 28. Placement of a wreath on a specific grave can be made.
To sponsor a wreath, please visit ChattAreaVeterans.com/WAC or mail a check of $10 to Wreaths Across Chattanooga, 426 Market Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402.