Florence County’s Heartfelt Initiative: Wreaths for Veterans
Florence County, S.C., is buzzing with a sense of community spirit as the Blue Star Mothers of Coastal Carolina prepare for their annual tradition of placing wreaths at the Florence National Cemetery. This nonprofit, which has been honoring military families since its founding in 1942, extends its support beyond just veterans; it embraces the mothers, grandmothers, and stepmothers of those who have served. Their mission? To ensure that the sacrifices made by our heroes are never forgotten.
A Noble Tradition
This year marks a significant moment for the Blue Star Mothers as they get ready to participate in the Wreaths Across America initiative—a nationwide campaign that aims to lay Christmas wreaths on the graves of our nation’s veterans. The president of the organization, Carol Dion, emphasizes the importance of this occasion. “It’s a big deal for the simple fact that you’re placing a Christmas wreath, nothing spectacular,” she explains. “But it’s the fact that you’re honoring these veterans. When we say their names, they will never be forgotten.”
The Growth of a Memorial
Established at the Florence National Cemetery back in 2010 with just 9,200 graves to honor, the number of veteran’s graves has since surged to over 15,000 as of September 30 this year. This steady increase reflects the ongoing sacrifices made by servicemen and women. As the cemetery continues to grow, Dion and her team are committed to ensuring that every headstone receives a wreath each holiday season.
Dion notes, “In 14 years, it’s gone from 9,200 to 15,600. So every year we’re chasing a number. The number keeps growing, so we have to get a few more wreaths each year.” It’s a profound reminder that while they pay tribute to the fallen, there are always new stories and sacrifices to remember.
A Personal Connection
For Dion, this mission is deeply personal. Her daughter dedicated 22 years to the Army, serving not just her country but also making the family proud. “I’m grateful for all the things that she has done in her career and all of the help that she gives along the way,” she shares. The commitment to honoring veterans extends through generations in her family, with ties dating all the way back to World War I. “It’s very important for me to know that there are groups out there that will take care of our veterans,” she adds.
Join the Cause
As Veterans Day approaches, there’s a growing call for support. Community members are encouraged to get involved by sponsoring a wreath, a simple yet meaningful way to honor those who have served. Dion passionately encourages everyone to participate, saying, “It’s a chance for anyone who wants to show gratitude to see that love reflected on those headstones.”
If you’re interested in learning more about the Blue Star Mothers or wish to sponsor a wreath, connecting with them can make a world of difference this holiday season.
A Reminder of Sacrifice
Ultimately, the work done by the Blue Star Mothers goes beyond just placing wreaths. Their motto is simple yet powerful: “Remember, honor, and teach.” They hope to teach younger generations about the value of freedom and the realities of military service. Each wreath laid is not just a decoration for the holidays but a symbol of respect and gratitude for the lives lost so that we could enjoy our freedoms today.
