Wreaths Across American salutes Arizona heroes in Mesa
Staff Reports | Community Updates
Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery is hosting its fourth annual Wreaths Across America Remembrance Ceremony 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7900 E. Main Street in Mesa.
“This year marks a significant milestone for our cemetery and community,” said Elisa Krcilek, vice president of Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery. “Together, we honor our heroes and teach our youth the true cost of freedom. We hope everyone will join us for this moving tribute.”
This year, 2,300 wreaths will be laid on the graves of veterans interred at Mountain View Cemetery as part of a nationwide tribute spanning more than 4,000 cemeteries.
The event begins with a ceremony featuring remarks from Command Sergeant Major Rick Kreiberg (ret.), founder of the Veterans Affinity, along with presentations by the Apache Junction High School JROTC, Boy Scouts, and the Mesa Fire and Medical Department Pipes and Drums.
The wreath-laying will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m., in coordination with the national effort. Last year, over 600 attendees participated, and this year’s event aims to attract even more volunteers and sponsors, organizers of the event tell the Digital Free Press.
“Wreaths Across America reminds us that the legacy of our veterans endures through these acts of gratitude,” says Greg Coury, owner of Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.
“Our community’s dedication to this cause grows stronger every year.”
Volunteers are essential to the success of Wreaths Across America. The cemetery needs help unpacking and preparing wreaths 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. Volunteers should bring gloves and box cutters to assist with handling and fluffing wreaths.
Community members can sponsor a wreath for $17, ensuring that every veteran’s grave is adorned with a wreath.
