Wreaths Across America Leavenworth Edition

In my estimation about 150 people attended yesterdays ceremony. Despite the cold temperature (about 23 degrees) and bitterly cold winds (roughly 35 mph) I don't believe that anyone left truly cold; This was a heart-warming experience.

The event started promptly at 11:00 and lasted about 20 minutes. Wreaths were laid for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and POW/MIA's. Members from each branch of service presented their respective branches wreath. Some traveled from as far away as Alaska, Virginia and Mississippi. Admittedly the remarks made by the Lt. Col. from the Civl Air Patrol were often lost in the strong wind. That did not deter anyone from respectfully listening as well as they could. The ceremony ended with a rifle salute and Taps. I'm sure the bugler kept that mouthpiece warm too!

The unit in period dress from the Revolutionary War then led a procession to the section where the wreaths were to be laid. This same unit passed out the wreaths. The graves spanned WWI, the Spanish American War and WWII. How long does it take to place 760 wreaths? About one half hour, with lots of help. The wreaths were handed out one by one and all of us made numerous trips from the trailer with the wreaths, to the grave markers. One lady stoically made repeated trips with the aid of her cane up and down the slope of the cemetery. Each time we received a wreath to be laid we were quietly told, "God bless you and your soldier".

As best as I can remember the crowd was made up of C.A.P. New Century Airport, American Legion Riders, Patriot Guard, Basehor Elementary 5th grade, active duty/families, veterans and members of the community. I'm sure that we have all recovered from wind burn, chapped lips and runny noses by this time.

The event was also covered by Fox 4 Kansas City.

http://www.fox4kc.com/news/wdaf-wreath-ceremony-leavenworth-121110,...