MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Across America, families, veterans, and service members dedicated time to remember fallen service members at a Wreaths Across America event Dec. 17, 2016.
Airmen from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida joined the day of honor at the 11th Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at Florida National Cemetery.
The day began with a police and motorcycle escort of semi-trucks packed full with wreaths donated by sponsors from around the world and ready to be placed on gravesites.
The mission of the Wreaths Across America organization is to remember the fallen, honor those that serve and their families, and teach children the value of freedom.
“This is a simple gesture to show our fallen heroes a thank you for all they have done for this great country we call home,” said Senior Airman Sierra Ellis, a base records manager with 6th Communications Squadron.
The event came to a close with the Holiday Wreath Laying Ceremony, which begins at Arlington National Cemetery and national cemeteries across the country at the same time.
“We remember those who have fallen by placing wreaths on their gravesites,” said a representative from Wreaths Across America organization. “We honor those that serve and their families and we teach our children by having them participate in the ceremony.”