Editor’s note: Pastor Toni Lucas submitted the article; the photo was taken by Gina Stroyan.
Each year, millions of Americans come together to Remember the fallen, Honor those that serve and their families, and Teach the next generation about the value of freedom. This gathering of volunteers and patriots takes place in local, State, and National cemeteries in all 50 states, as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. In December 2020, the event was held at Lusk Memorial Cemetery, Albany, IL.
Annual themes help volunteers and supporters focus their messaging and outreach in their own communities. The National nonprofit announced the theme for 2021 is “Live Up to Their Legacy.”
The inspiration for this year’s theme came from a statement made by United States Army Chief of Staff, General James C. McConville, in an interview with Chris Wallace on Fox News Sunday, in early November 2020. General McConville spoke on behalf of the United States Army and the upcoming opening of The National Museum of the United States Army, which was being honored as the “Power Player of the Week.” He said, “We stand on the shoulders of heroes that have gone before us, and really what we strive to do is live up to their legacy.”
His message resonated deeply with Executive Director Karen Worcester and many others. “Listening to this man, who is a hero in his own right, speak about what and who motivates him is inspiring,” she said. “It is the men and women who serve, every day people, [who give] of themselves for their Country and communities. I urge everyone to look to the people and the families that have made these sacrifices to keep this Country free, and live up to their legacy.”
Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s mission, Remember, Honor, Teach, is carried out in part…by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 States and beyond.
For more information, contact Rev. Toni Lucas at 270-703-9799 or visit rememberhonorteach@gmail.com.