On Saturday, December 13, Mount Peace Cemetery in St. Cloud served as a place of reflection and gratitude as the community gathered for its annual Wreaths Across America ceremony, joining thousands of locations nationwide in honoring America’s veterans.
The ceremony followed the organization’s mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach, recognizing the sacrifices of those who served while emphasizing the importance of educating future generations about the true cost of freedom.
The event was led by Master of Ceremonies Daryl Bass, who delivered opening remarks and guided attendees through a solemn and meaningful program. A moment of silence was observed, followed by the posting of the colors by the Osceola County Veterans Council. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scouts Troop 800, highlighting the involvement of local youth in honoring veterans.
The National Anthem was performed by Stacy Hobbs, and the invocation was offered by Bob McGrath of the Osceola County Veterans Council. Attendees were also moved by special music performed by JD and Stacy of Afterglow, adding a powerful emotional element to the ceremony.
A central portion of the program included the ceremonial presentation of wreaths, with local representatives honoring each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Wreaths were presented for the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force, and POW/MIA, ensuring no branch or sacrifice was forgotten. A wreath was also placed in honor of Amzi D. Harmon, Medal of Honor recipient, recognizing historic service through participating veterans’ organizations.
The ceremony included recognition of special guests, followed by remarks from Douglas Goerke, Chief of Police for the City of St. Cloud, who reflected on the enduring legacy of service and the responsibility of communities to remember those who defended the nation.
A 21-gun salute, performed by the Osceola County Veterans Council, brought the formal program to a close. Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to take part in the gravesite wreath-laying, placing wreaths on veterans’ headstones throughout Mount Peace Cemetery.
Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters, 1,400 wreaths were placed to honor veterans laid to rest at the cemetery, ensuring each was remembered during the holiday season.
Through its participation in Wreaths Across America, Mount Peace Cemetery once again stood as a place of honor, remembrance, and education—reinforcing a powerful message shared throughout the ceremony: freedom is not free, and those who served must never be forgotten.
