Wreaths Across America Day 2024 is in the rear-view mirror, but hardly a day goes by without someone asking me if things have slowed down here at HQ. Most are surprised to hear that we have hit the ground running for 2025 and looking forward to advancing the year-round programs that further our mission.

This year’s theme, ‘Keep Moving Forward,’ is inspired by the last words of Army Capt. Joshua T. Byers and the stories of people who have faced great adversity and then used these life experiences to help others. This theme and their example are the corner stones of outreach for this year. 

Our robust Teach curriculum spear-headed by Gold Star Mother and retired teacher Cindy Tatum features lesson plans for grades Kindergarten through 12th and focuses on materials to stir patriotism in young minds.

WAA’s Mobile Education Exhibit (MEE) is a traveling classroom for young and old alike that goes coast to coast  stopping at schools and municipalities. Our MEE team, in conjunction with the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration, has pinned and welcomed home more than 6,000 of our nation’s Vietnam veterans. 

Wreaths Across America Radio has established itself as the go-to place for veterans and their families to hear about services that are available to the veteran community. Home to over 75 veteran-centric programs Wreath Radio is a prime example of like-minded organizations working together for the greater good. 

I encourage everyone to visit our website to read about these programs, as well as our upcoming events. For me, and hopefully others, Wreaths Across America is not about one day in December when we place wreaths and say names, but living the mission year-round. So, we never wind down!

Motivated by the sacrifices of so many and their passion for patriotism, we Keep Moving Forward and proudly carry out our mission every day. 

Remember. Honor. Teach.

Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America