The Church and Cannon Chapter of the National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution hosted their 1st ever Wreaths Across America Ceremony this past weekend. Many Springfield residents were at attendance for the ceremony that was held to honor those who served our country and protected our freedom, especially now during the holidays.
Heather Sandford; the Wreaths Across America Location Coordinator for the Battleground Cemetery, led the ceremony by welcoming everyone inside, thanking the township and everyone in attendance. Then the Pledge of Allegiance was led by multiple scouts from Springfield scout troops. And Reverend Roberto Fois of the First Presbyterian Church of Springfield gave the Invocation.
Mayor Alexander Keiser gave the proclamation that can be read at the front door of Townhall. Other speakers included Diane Waugh Oliver; State Regent of NJDAR, Linda Jurczak; State Vice Regent of NJDAR, and Gerri McManus; Commander of American Legion Continental Post 228.
“Thank you to everyone for coming here today. A special thank you to all veterans who are here today, for your service and sacrifice to our nation. And to all the families who had to share your service members – it means alot. There’s pain for everybody who didn’t come back, for their families so thank them for their service and their sacrifice this holiday season. ”
Mayor Alexander Keiser
The eight wreaths were brought out during the ceremony and displayed for everyone to see. They are now displayed in front of Town Hall and they will remain there for a week to celebrate. The wreaths are dedicated to each branch of service; United States Army, United States Marine Corps, United States Navy, United States Air Force, United States Space Force, United States Coast Guard, United States Merchant Marine, and POW/MIA.
The ceremony continued at the Battleground Cemetery where Linda Jurczak read the names of those resting at the cemetery. Attendees of the ceremony were welcomed to take a wreath and place it on the gravestone of each soldier. Wreaths were placed on the grave and the names were said aloud to make certain they are never forgotten.
Thank you to everyone who attended the ceremony!
If you would like to learn more about Wreaths Across America check out last year’s post or check out their website.