The 2023 “Wreaths across Chattanooga” campaign was able to have a wreath placed on each grave at Chattanooga National Cemetery, which was the first time that this has happened in the 161-year history of Chattanooga National Cemetery. The 2024 task is to repeat what was done in 2023 and Food City has made a major step in making that happen with a $10,000 donation, which will result in the graves of 1,000 veterans receiving a wreath on Dec. 14.
Officials said, "The mission of Wreaths across Chattanooga is to lay a wreath on every grave at Chattanooga National Cemetery and in so doing is to 'REMEMBER all Chattanooga area veterans who served our country, HONOR the lives of those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice, and TEACH the value of freedom and those who protected our freedom.' This is an opportunity to connect 'The Greatest Generations' with the “Generation of Hope-The Next Greatest Generation' and an opportunity to honor our Chattanooga Heroes."
Wreaths across Chattanooga is an all-volunteer (100 percent), IRS 501 c 3 non-profit organization, with every donation going to purchase a live, 22-inch green wreath with red bow shipped from Western North Carolina.
Wreaths are $10 each, with donations mailed to Wreaths across Chattanooga, 426 Market St., Chattanooga, Tn. 37402, or online at www.Chattareaveterans.com/wac. Specific graves for wreath placement can be made.