For the first time in Vermont’s history, every gravestone in each of the state’s veterans’ cemeteries will receive a wreath this December, the result of an unprecedented statewide volunteer effort coordinated through Wreaths Across America.
Organizers confirmed that Vermont has reached 100 percent wreath coverage across its veterans’ cemeteries, a milestone made possible by donations, community outreach, and help from partner groups who stepped in where needed. St. Albans Cemetery came within 16 wreaths of full coverage, but the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery (VVMC) offered to supply the remaining wreaths. Hillside Cemetery and Fort Ethan Allen Cemetery had also supported St. Albans earlier in the campaign, ensuring no veteran would be left out.
“We did it — first time ever,” the statewide Wreaths Across America coordinator Susan Sweetser said in a message thanking supporters. “Thank you, from my heart. We could not have done it without you — truly. And your coverage helped us get more volunteers to spread the word.”
Ceremonies will be held at several locations as volunteers gather to lay wreaths at the graves of Vermont veterans.
- Fort Ethan Allen Cemetery in Colchester will begin its ceremony on Saturday, December 13, at 10 a.m.
- The Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery will hold its wreath-laying at noon on December 13. The coordinator noted that the date is also their birthday, adding that they “can’t think of a better way to spend it than seeing every veteran at VVMC remembered.”
- St. Albans, which has never come this close to full coverage, will hold its ceremony on Friday, December 12, at 10 a.m. at Taylor Park.
Organizers are inviting anyone able to participate to join the ceremonies and help honor the service and sacrifice of Vermont veterans.
“So much gratitude for what you did,” Sweetser said. “This year, every veteran will be remembered.”