Richard Reuer

Minot

First, I want to thank the Minot Civil Air Patrol and those who helped in my absence due to COVID-19 to make sure wreaths were laid at the graves of our fallen heroes on Saturday, December 18, 2021.

I know that there were a few items that were not able to be completed, as I was not there to help in the coordination of this event, especially the volunteer’s orientation, which I come to learn did not go over very well, as those who attended, when they showed up on Saturday morning, it seemed that they forgot what was shared with them in how wreaths were to be laid and the saying of names of those when wreaths were placed on their graves and thanking them for their service was not given with respect.

Each year we strive to teach our volunteers that we are not out there to decorate graves, for we decorate graves on Memorial Day. When wreaths are laid each year in the month of December it is to thank each of our fallen heroes for the sacrifice they have given towards our country and the freedom that we can enjoy through their sacrifice. Remembering that each of these men and women wrote a blank check payable to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA to sacrifice their lives so that we may have the freedom to enjoy what we have in our country today that most countries don’t have.

Wreaths Across America’s mission is to remember our fallen, Honor those who serve, and teach our children the value of freedom.

On Saturday, January 29th, volunteers will be removing these wreaths as each year we do and as we do we still give respect and honor to those who have given their lives and continue to thank them for their service as well as for their family members who have also given their loved ones to fight for our freedom.

We thank all those who helped sponsor over 1,500 wreaths. It seems each year the numbers are growing, showing that there are those who Remember, Honor and Teach through their support. And not only during the times when we lay wreaths, but also the times when flags are put out on Memorial Day, that those who participate in placing of the flags would use the same way as when we lay wreaths, to take a moment and thank those veterans receiving the flags for giving of their lives so that we can enjoy the freedom we have in our country each day that we live.

If you had not been able to sponsor a wreath last year, you can still sponsor anytime throughout the year with a donation of $15.00 per wreath send check or money order to: Wreaths Across America 1738 35th Ave. SE Minot, ND 58701.

Thank you all for giving the gift of remembrance! When you sponsor a veteran’s wreath, you are ensuring an American hero is honored.

Live up to their legacy – Be their witness for everyone plays a part to be an American worth fighting for.