WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King recognized today, December 18th, as Wreaths Across America Day. The day marks an important national effort in which thousands of volunteers across the country and the globe will place wreaths on the graves of American veterans. In the largest laying of the wreaths, a convoy of volunteers will travel from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery to lay Maine-made balsam wreaths at the headstones of American veterans interred there. Senators Collins and King unanimously passed a Senate resolution earlier this month to designate the day.

“From Arlington to Normandy, Wreaths Across America is part of our national responsibility to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women who served in our Armed Forces,” said Senators Collins and King. “For thirty years, the fields of Maine-made wreaths laid in December have served as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of America’s veterans, and that we must never forget all they have done to protect our country. The longevity and expanding reach of this event is a testament to the spirit of Maine people, our overwhelming gratitude to our nation’s servicemembers, and the extraordinary dedication of all those who’ve made the tribute possible. We’re deeply grateful for all the efforts of Wreaths Across America, their volunteers, and of course to all our military servicemembers and their families who have undertaken great personal risk in the defense of our nation.”

Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 2,200 locations across the United States and abroad. In 2019, approximately 2.2 million wreaths were laid, including more than 13,300 which were placed at the American Cemeteries in Luxembourg and the Netherlands, in remembrance of those lost their lives during World War II. Each wreath is made in Maine, along with the boxes they come in.

Senators Collins and King have long passed a Senate resolution designating a Saturday in December as Wreaths Across America Day. This year’s full resolution can be read here.