Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery is proud to host the fourth annual Wreaths Across America Remembrance Ceremony on Saturday, December 14, at 9:30 a.m. at 7900 E. Main Street in Mesa. This national event honors the service and sacrifice of veterans while educating younger generations about the importance of remembrance.
"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 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.
“Wreaths Across America reminds us that the legacy of our veterans endures through these acts of gratitude,” said 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 on Friday, December 13, starting at 3 p.m. Volunteers should bring gloves and box cutters to assist with handling and fluffing wreaths.
On Saturday, December 14, participants are encouraged to arrive by 9 a.m. for donuts and coffee before the ceremony. Volunteers are advised to bring lawn chairs for seating during the event and will assist with placing wreaths after the ceremony concludes.
Community members can sponsor a wreath for $17, ensuring that every veteran's grave is adorned with a wreath. Sponsorships can be made online through Wreaths Across America or by mailing checks to:
Wreaths Across America
c/o Nancy Fassbender
4657 S. Desert Dawn
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
For those interested in volunteering or sponsoring wreaths, contact Nancy Fassbender at 520-280-4715 or email [email protected].
*Volunteers are asked to respect Jewish customs by refraining from placing wreaths on graves marked with the Star of David. Instead, pause to say the name of the individual.
