On a beautiful December afternoon, more than 1,400 wreaths were carefully placed on the graves of fallen heroes during the Wreaths Across America ceremony held on Saturday at Mount Peace Cemetery in St. Cloud. The event, part of a nationwide initiative, united local residents from St. Cloud and Around Osceola, veterans, and families in a moving tribute to honor those who served and sacrificed for their country.

This year’s ceremony at Mount Peace Cemetery was a solemn yet uplifting occasion, marked by heartfelt speeches, ceremonial wreath placements, and the shared commitment to the Wreaths Across America mission: Remember, Honor, Teach.

The program opened with Mike Facella, the Master of Ceremonies, delivering the opening remarks. Facella set a reverent tone for the day, guiding attendees through the event while reminding everyone of the profound significance of honoring both past and present sacrifices of America’s service members.

A key highlight was the placement of ceremonial wreaths, symbolizing respect for each branch of the military and the families of those who served. Those honored included:

  • United States Army – Rick and Karen Areola
  • United States Navy – Marty Feck
  • United States Marine Corps – John and Sue Wilding
  • United States Air Force – Tom Allen
  • United States Coast Guard – Amarilis Torres
  • Merchant Marines – Laurel Robertson
  • Space Force – Mackenzie Deatherage and Sean Hans
  • POW/MIA – Daryl Bass

The wreath-laying ceremony was further enriched by representatives of organizations such as the Joshua Stevens DAR and the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War Tent 11, alongside the Sons of Union Veterans’ L.L. Mitchell Camp 4.

Throughout the ceremony, there was an unmistakable sense of unity and gratitude. Veterans, local leaders, and young participants, including Boy Scouts Troop 800, played integral roles in honoring those laid to rest. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Boy Scouts, followed by a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Stacy Hobbs. Special music by JD and Stacy of Afterglow provided a moving soundtrack to the day’s tributes.

Guest speaker Eric Davidson, CEO and Director of Veteran Affairs at McCormick Research Institute, delivered powerful remarks about the enduring legacy of veterans and the importance of events like Wreaths Across America to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.

The ceremony concluded with a solemn 21-gun salute performed by the Osceola Veterans Council. Families, volunteers, and attendees were then invited to participate in the gravesite wreath-laying, a reflective moment that symbolized the community’s collective gratitude and remembrance.

The day’s message was clear: freedom is not free. “It’s so important to teach future generations about the sacrifices made for our freedoms,” said one attendee. “The wreaths are a simple yet powerful way to honor those who gave so much.”

Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit organization founded in 1992, carries out its mission year-round to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation about the value of freedom. The annual wreath-laying ceremonies take place at more than 4,225 locations across the United States, including Arlington National Cemetery, where the tradition began.

For more information or to sponsor a wreath, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.