Wreaths Across America
(Crystal Lake, IL) For the second year in Crystal Lake, wreaths will be placed on the headstones of Veterans as a part of Wreaths Across America. William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 of Crystal Lake has partnered with VFW Post 12014, Marine Corps League, Veterans Assistance Commission, Veterans Path to Hope, Veterans Network Association and the City of Crystal Lake to remember, honor and teach.
Everyone is invited to participate in this ceremony which will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Union Cemetery at 150 West Woodstock Street on Saturday, Dec. 19. Post Commander Charlie Morgan will welcome the public and families. He will remind the audience that millions of Americans are gathering as one nation on this day to Remember, Honor and Teach.
Crystal Lake Mayor Haig Haleblian will briefly address the audience.
After recognition of Gold Star families, there will be a bell rung and the name of each of the 30 Veterans killed in conflict will be spoken aloud with a moment to thank them for their service to our country. Boy Scout Troop #165 will assist in placing the wreaths.
Morrill Worcester of Harrington, Maine, was a 12-year-old paperboy when he won a trip to Washington, D.C. Arlington National Cemetery made an indelible impression on him that followed him throughout his life and successful career as a wreath maker. It reminded him that his good fortune was due, in large part, to the values of this nation and the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
In 1992, Mr. Worcester had a surplus of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season. Remembering his boyhood experience at Arlington, Worcester realized he had an opportunity to honor our country’s veterans. With the aid of former Maine Senator Olympia Snowe, arrangements were made for the wreaths to be placed at Arlington in one of the older sections of the cemetery.
In 2007, the Worcester family, along with veterans and other groups and individuals who had helped with their annual veteran’s wreath ceremony in Arlington, formed Wreaths Across America, a non-profit 501c (3) organization. The yearlong mission of the organization is simple: REMEMBER the fallen. HONOR those who serve. TEACH the next generation the value of freedom.
In 2023, Wreaths Across America and its national network of volunteers placed over 3 million veterans’ wreaths at 4,225 participating locations in the United States and beyond.
To volunteer to place wreaths on veterans' graves or sponsor wreaths visit Wreaths Across America. On the home page click on “Sponsor Wreaths” or “Volunteer”.
Veterans Blanket Project
Our commitment to veterans continues long after their military service ends. Today, we have an opportunity to show veterans living in nursing homes throughout the Crystal Lake area that their service is remembered and appreciated.
American Legion Crystal Lake Post 171 is requesting monetary donations to help provide these veterans with embroidered blankets. Each blanket will offer warmth, comfort, and a meaningful reminder that they remain part of a caring veteran community.
For a veteran living in a nursing home, a thoughtful gift and a personal connection can mean a great deal. Through this effort, we hope to share a simple message: You are remembered. You are appreciated. Your service matters.
Please consider making a donation of $30. Your generosity will help cover the cost of purchasing and embroidering the blankets. You may also wish to give in honor or memory of a fellow veteran, family member, or friend. Last year we delivered nearly 100 gifts.
To contribute, please contact Charlie Morgan, Post 171 Commander, or submit your donation to American Legion Crystal Lake Post 171 P.O. Box 1713 Crystal Lake, IL 60039-1713.
Please indicate “Veterans Blanket Project” with your donation.
Thank you for your generosity and your continued dedication to serving those who served. Together, we can bring comfort to veterans right here in our community.
