Today [13 December 2014] many patriotic volunteers from across Sierra Vista came together to place wreaths on the graves of Veterans at the Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery as part of Wreaths Across America.

Our Chapter Adjutant was there with his children helping place wreaths for the holidays. Past Chapter LAMOPH President, Stacey Hamilton, was also there with her Boy Scout troop helping out.

A Veteran's Wreath is made up often of balsam bouquets. Each bouquet helps describe the veteran.
- The first bouquet stands for the veteran's faith in God.
- The second bouquet stands for the veteran's love for one another.
- The third bouquet stands for the veteran's strength, work ethic and character.
- The fourth bouquet stands for the veteran's honesty and integrity.
- The fifth bouquet stands for the veteran's humility, selflessness, and modesty.
- The sixth bouquet stands for the veteran's ambitions and aspirations.
- The seventh bouquet stands for the veteran's optimism for their fellow American and for our country.
- The eighth bouquet stands for the veteran's concern for the future and future generations.
- The ninth bouquet stands for the veteran's pride in carrying out their duties.
- The tenth bouquet stands for the veteran's hopes and dreams that didn't always come true, but left them with no regrets.

Now, this wreath, made of the ten bouquets becomes a symbol of honor, respect and victory. It's made from evergreens which symbolizes longevity and endurance. Its circular shape symbolizes eternity as it has no beginning and no end. Its clean forest scent symbolizes purity and simplicity. Its red bow symbolizes great sacrifice.

So this year when you lay a wreath on a veteran's grave, you'll know it's not just a wreath. It'll be your personal gift to an American Hero. If you'd like to donate for next year's Wreaths Across America you can by going to www.savmcf.org. A small $15 donation honors a fallen hero by placing a wreath on his or her grave.