Local communities came together on December 16, 2023, to honor veterans through the annual Wreaths Across America ceremonies. These events, held in Lynn, Swampscott, and Marblehead, focused on placing wreaths on the graves of fallen military members as a symbol of remembrance and respect.
Wreaths Across America is a nationwide initiative that collects wreaths purchased by donors and distributes them to local volunteers. In total, more than 650 wreaths were gathered between Lynn and Swampscott, while Marblehead collected approximately 2,700 wreaths. The ceremonies took place at three cemeteries: Pine Grove Cemetery in Lynn, Swampscott Cemetery, and Waterside Cemetery in Marblehead.
The ceremonies in Lynn and Swampscott were organized by Mike Sweeney, the Lynn/Swampscott Veterans’ Service Director, alongside Andrea Gayle Bennett, the Deputy Secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services. In Marblehead, local residents Kim Crowley and Emily DeJoy, who have strong family ties to the military, coordinated the event.
During the ceremony, Sweeney emphasized the emotional impact and community involvement of Wreaths Across America. “Every year, we have new volunteers. They’re proud to be a part of it. People come out for the first time and lay a wreath on the grave of a loved one or a veteran they’ve never met. It’s one of those nice ceremonies that includes the veterans, the community, the youth, and it’s just a really incredible moment,” he stated.
Sweeney articulated the significance of the wreaths as a visual reminder, particularly during the winter months. “When you see the wreaths out there, it looks beautiful. It’s a visual reminder. It makes people pause and remember,” he explained. He further noted, “It’s a visual indication of that sense of community and support that we hope veterans and military service members would have all the time.”
The success of these events was attributed to the collaborative efforts of various local organizations and sponsors, including the Lynn Veterans Council, Lynn Department of Public Works (DPW), Swampscott Rotary, VFW Post 1240, Swampscott DPW, and Will Torres of Swampscott Cemetery. Sweeney remarked, “We could not do it without them. When the cemeteries look nice, that doesn’t happen by accident.”
These ceremonies not only honor the sacrifices made by veterans but also serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing support from the community. Each wreath placed is a testament to the respect and gratitude that local residents hold for those who have served in the military. As the holiday season continues, initiatives like Wreaths Across America underscore the importance of remembrance and community solidarity.
