The Welcome W. Chandler Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas held a Wreaths Across America observation at Greenleaf Cemetery Saturday morning, followed the placement of 2,000 wreaths on the graves on military veterans.
Matthew McCrane, President of the Greenleaf Cemetery Board of Directors, announced to those in attendance this would be the first year each veteran at the cemetery received a wreath at their grave since the program’s inception.
Dr. Julie Welker, President of the Welcome W. Chandler Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, emceed the program that preceded the placement of the wreaths.
The Posting of Colors on horseback was provided by Early junior Kayli DeVusser (US Flag); Caroline Welker (Texas Flag), WWC DRT member and daughter of Airman First Class Rob Welker, USAF; and homeschool student Caroline Dennis (WWC DRT Flag), daughter of Col. Joseph Dennis, USAF.
Mary Lee Bailey Shelton led the gathering in the Pledges of Allegiance, while Ashley Foust led the Coggin Elementary Choir in the signing of the Star Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful.
The Pecan Valley District Texas Trails Council Branch of the Scouts of America recognized each branch of the service with its respective flag.
Thomas Stalcup, who has four veteran family members resting at Greenleaf, was the keynote speaker.
A cannon salute was provided by Jeff Meadow ahead of the performance of Taps by Dr. Jonathan Kramer, HPU Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music.
The placement of the wreaths by attendees and volunteers, including the American Legion Post 196, commenced following the program.
Those interested in sponsoring wreaths next year can already do so. Through Dec. 31, you can purchase two wreaths for the price of one at wreathsacrossamerica.org/TX1050P. Checks can also be made payable to WWCDRT and mailed to Nancy Lowry, DRT Treasurer, PO Box 272, Bangs, TX 76823. The cost is $17 per wreath, or $204 per box, which includes 12 wreaths.
