I’m a third-generation military of the military and my father served as a police officer after his tour in Vietnam. Sadly, he was killed in the line of duty after just 18 months on patrol. Cemeteries never looked the same for me again. 

Cemeteries became a place of connection for my family and me to my Dad. I learned that others felt the same way and honored their loved ones by placing wreaths, flags and other items throughout the year. Houston has eight cemeteries where we can honor our heroes with holiday wreaths. Through a national program, Wreaths Across America, you can either sponsor or join a group that is placing wreaths at each site. 

On Saturday, December 18th, Companies, Civic Organizations, Churches and Community Members will attend the main location to honor the 90,000 men and women laid to rest at the Houston National Cemetery with Remembrance Wreaths. Wreaths are only $15 and each one will be precisely positioned at each grave. Volunteers will place the wreath, salute or put their hand over the hearts and read the names on the markers and stones aloud. A formal ceremony will be held to give instructions and start the event. 

Join us by sponsoring a Veterans’ wreath at a cemetery near you, volunteering or donating to a local sponsorship group. You can visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org to find a location nearest you or plan on attending the largest one at the Houston National Cemetery (TXHNCH). That location is 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.

Please plan on carpooling and dress according to the weather conditions. This event will take place, rain, or shine at 11:00 am. There is an option to park at Greenspoint Mall and take the free shuttle. This is a kid friendly event. 

Tim Stroud is a former Combat Medic in the United States Army, the Founder of the Veterans Rotary Club of Greater Houston and is a Congressional Candidate for TX District 7.