The local "Wreaths Across America" ceremony took place for the 10th year at Resurrection Cemetery in Allentown on Dec. 14.
Approximately 300 volunteers from the community and Diocese of Allentown came at noon to take part in the ceremony and lay wreaths on the graves of the 1,700 veterans buried in the cemetery.
The event is a unique opportunity to honor those who served in our military and fill our hearts with hope during Advent.
"Burying the dead" is a Corporal Work of Mercy. Entering this mystery of mercy by laying wreaths and honoring the dead brings a profound sense of peace to loved ones who attend the ceremony.
Jane George, wife of the late Deacon Von George, attended Wreaths Across America this year in honor of her husband, who was highlighted in the program with a picture and an excerpt about his life.
Deacon George served the United States for 28 years in the U.S. Army, Army Reserves, and Pennsylvania Army National Guard. During that time, he was an Officer in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Army Logistics Branch.
After the event, Jane George reflected, "Wreaths Across America has always held a special place in our hearts, and Von played a vital role in bringing this program to Resurrection Cemetery, ensuring veterans are honored and remembered.”
Deacon George worked as the Director of Supply Chain at St. Luke's for many years. He was instrumental in working with event organizer John Fitzpatrick, Knight of Columbus, to get St. Luke's University Health Network to participate in Wreaths Across America each year.
Jane George was moved when Bishop Alfred Schlert, who was present to lead those present in the opening and closing prayer, joined her family in placing a wreath at Deacon George's grave. Bishop Schlert ordained Deacon George and celebrated his funeral Mass.
“Today, we carried on Von's legacy as a family, placing wreaths and reflecting on his dedication to this meaningful tradition," said Jane George. Therefore, "to have [Bishop Schlert] join us in placing Von's wreath was a powerful tribute to Von's military service, his faith, and his unwavering commitment to serving others. [Von's] legacy continues to inspire us every day."
During the ceremony, Tobyhanna Army Depot Commander Col. James Crocker, delivered a heartfelt keynote address, urging those present to honor and support both veterans and those who currently serve in our military.
Tobyhanna Army Depot is a part of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command. The Depot, which has a 4,000-member team, is in the Pocono Mountains.
Fitzpatrick was thankful to Commander Col. Crocker, for engaging the Tobyhanna team in laying wreaths at veterans’ graves.
Each volunteer was asked to take a moment to pause, say the veteran’s name, and observe a moment of silence to honor the courage of the service members whose graves they were placing wreaths on.
The motto of "Wreaths Across America" is "Remember. Honor. Teach." While those of all ages were present in the freezing weather to honor loved ones or simply volunteer to help with the effort, many youth took part in the event.
Allentown Central Catholic High School sophomore Julia Janis sang the National Anthem, and sophomore Alexander Neagle, who participated in this event several years in a row, read a poem in honor of the service members.
A local Girl Scout troop, Boy Scout Troop, and Packs 1600, 12 and 29 were present to take part in the procession and to post and retire the colors.
Parkland High School football players were seen placing wreaths on graves. Senior Reid Andrush said, "We are here with [our] team. I think it is a great way to show respect to everyone who has lost their lives and to come out and do something for the community."
Through Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, all wreath donations will be matched one for one by Wreaths Across America, and one for two by St. Luke’s. To donate, go to https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/17119/.
Resurrection is one of two Diocese of Allentown cemeteries. The other is Holy Saviour, Bethlehem. For more information, go to www.allentowndiocesecemeteries.org.
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