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CLINTON TOWNSHIP — On a brisk, sunny day, families scattered through Resurrection Cemetery to honor veterans by placing wreaths on their graves.
The Wreaths Across America event took place Dec. 14 and marked the first year that the Clinton Township Kiwanis Club organized it.
“We did a good job. We’ll do better next year and we’ll also raise more money,” said Kerry Jantz, a board member with the Kiwanis Club.
Seaman Apprentice Evan Williams of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps kicked off the event with a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and a short speech.
“It is my generation’s responsibility to honor your service by upholding the values of liberty, justice and unity for all,” Williams said. “To the fallen, to the veterans and those still serving, thank you for giving us a nation worth pledging to.”
Retired Brigadier General Doug “Odie” Slocum, Air Force and Air National Guard, delivered the keynote speech at the event. Though Slocum joked about having a 58-minute speech prepared, he kept it brief.
“We get finite opportunities to meet amazing people,” Socum said. “In our audience right now, we have amazing people with great stories who have done some fantastic things. My challenge to you is to take some time to ask them questions. Spend that time and use one of the most valuable tools you have: your ears. To hear their stories and just to participate and let them know they’re loved for what they’ve done.”
Slocum mentioned a former girlfriend’s son reaching out on Facebook and telling Slocum that he inspired him to join the Air Force.
“Who would think that something you would say to a four-year-old would inspire decisions that are going to be lifechanging when they turn 18,” Slocum said. “We have an opportunity. The words we use, the things we say, the way we live our lives can inspire these young kids right here, right now.”
Pastor Robert Brannon delivered the invocation at the event.
“We ask your blessing for each and every person here who is going to place a wreath upon a grave,” Brannon said. “They will look and they will see a name on a headstone. They will see a birthdate and a death date. In the middle they will see a dash. Let us remember what that life represented to you and me for the freedoms that we have.”
State Rep. Joe Aragona took over as master of ceremonies at this year’s event for former Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon.
“Behind every headstone lies a story of sacrifice, courage and dedication,” Aragona said. “As we lay wreaths on these hallowed grounds, we not only adorn the final resting place of our heroes, but also express our gratitude for their service,” Aragona said.
Jantz said that after the ceremony Aragona, who is also a Kiwanis member, laid a wreath on the headstone of his grandfather.
Janis DeGregory sang the “Star Spangled Banner” at the event. American Legion Post 4 Patriot Team Honor Guard posted the colors. Later in the ceremony, Post 4 did a rifle volley followed by a trumpeter playing “Taps.” A parade of flags, featuring groups like Cub Scout, Boy Scout and American Heritage Girls, followed the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. It started privately in 1992 by Maine-based Worcester Wreath Company and expanded in 2005, according to the organization’s website.
Jantz and Lori Stillwell co-organized the event. Jantz said he thought, despite the cold, there was a good turnout.
“I was very pleased to see so many young people and families,” Jantz said.
Kiwanis tried to keep the ceremony concise.
“The ceremony is important to have, but it’s really the laying of the wreaths that’s the highlight of the day,” Jantz said.
