Wreaths Across America: A pause to remember

Today, December 13th, at 12:00 p.m., the Veterans Council of St. Johns County sponsored the annual “Wreaths Across America” event. Historic City News readers and the public attended and participated.

The historic St. Augustine National Cemetery at 104 Marine Street, St. Augustine was once again the sight of a tribute to our veterans when beautiful holiday wreaths were placed at each of the 1216 gravesites.

For several years the Veterans Council has collected donations to ensure the sacrifice of our veterans, and their families, are honored in this way at Christmas.

The event included an opening ceremony, placing of wreaths of each branch of service, and the opportunity for our citizens to assist in placement of the wreaths.

The keynote speaker was Colonel Rob Keating, Director of Human Resources Florida Army National Guard. At the conclusion of the placement of the wreaths, a seven-man firing detail fired three volleys and TAPS was performed by John Donlon, U.S. Navy (Ret).

This ceremony would not be possible without the tireless efforts of Ray Quinn, SGM (USA, Ret) and Judy Davis, SFC (USA, Ret) and the unwavering support and contributions of our citizens and local businesses.

Photo credits: © 2014 Historic City News contributed photograph by Mark Cubbedge