Wreaths Across America

Roman Martin

Our mission is to Remember, Honor and Teach.

We Remember each person by speaking their name as we place the wreath on their gravesite.

We Honor the memory of those who have died while on active service or in recognition of their past service to our country.

We Teach by commemorating the important dates in the history of these United States and how those who have given the last ounce of their lives to protect the liberties and privileges that we hold dear.

The Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery has completed their survey and determined that there are in excess of 2,500 veterans buried at their location on Chandler Heights Road. There are over 1,100 in the veterans’ section alone and a much larger number dispersed at other locations within the cemetery. Our goal at the Chandler Elk’s Lodge #2429 this year is to provide wreaths to those located in the veterans’ section. The additional veterans who have been located were a surprise to us and will be addressed in future years’ celebrations of their service.

Volunteers will meet on Saturday morning, December 16, this year to place the wreaths. After placing the wreaths, a short ceremony will be held honoring the uniformed services of the United States and all veterans.

Wreaths Across America is an IRS 501(c)(3)-approved charity, and all sponsorships are tax deductible. A sponsorship form can be obtained by contacting Nancy Espy at 480-202-0181 or Roman Martin at 602-330-1906. Cost of sponsorship of a wreath is $15.00, and a portion of that cost is returned to the community to provide assistance to veterans needing help in the form of meeting housing, clothing or medical needs.