Saturday, Dec. 15, began cold and rainy. But that didn’t dampen the spirits and resolve of the people who came to take part in the annual Wreaths Across America wreath laying ceremony at Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Chester.
A large group of adults and children attended the ceremony along with American Heritage Girls Troop No. 1024, members of the Thomas Dale High School lacrosse team, and the Fort Lee Army 832nd Ordnance Battalion and Color Guard.
Bonnie Vencille, a first-time volunteer, attended to share the event with her granddaughter, who is a member of the American Heritage Girls Troop.
“There are so many nice people here,” Vencille said. “And all here to honor the veterans. This is a wonderful way to teach our young people about honor, duty, and especially sacrifice.”
This year at Sunset Memorial Park, 566 wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves. The volunteers were asked to take a moment when they placed each wreath to read the veteran’s name and service.
The Richmond chapter of Gold Star Mothers and Wreaths Across America sponsor the annual event.
