By: Katrina Salokar & James Kennedy
On Saturday, December 14th, residents and neighbors gathered in two locations in Alva. First, to dedicate the Never Forget Garden Marker presented by the Alva Garden Club and hosted by the Alva Library and Museum, and then to lay Wreaths Across America at the Alva Cemetery at Noon.
The day began as the photos below depict the Alva Library and Museum, where a dedication ceremony with refreshments occurred. The events started with a Flag-Raising Ceremony, the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner and God Bless America by Saxophonist Dennis Gwizdala, words from Cathy Lowe, Director of Never Forget Registration for the Society Honor Guard, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Grant Fichter of the Alva Library and Museum, and Lorraine Gregg, an Alva Garden Club Representative.
Then, many of the crowd headed to the Alva Cemetery directly afterward to join others and Georgette Lundquist of the USS Hannah Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, for the Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony. Georgette introduced the wreath ceremonies, and the ladies requested a moment of silence. There was a pledge of allegiance with Abby Golden, the Billy Bowlegs Society chaplain, Children of the American Revolution. Second, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office presented colors, Taps, Amazing Grace on bagpipes, the Riderless Horse salute, and a rifle salute. One retired member of the service branches each laid remembrance wreaths at the Alva Cemetery head marker while NSDAR members stood by and helped guide the ceremony.
The Wreaths Across America Ceremony was held this day in over 4,500 locations across America, at sea, and around the globe. Nearly 3 million Americans gathered as one nation to remember our past veterans, honor those serving now, and teach the next generations that freedom comes at a cost. The live balsam fir wreaths symbolize our honor to those who have served and their families who endure sacrifices.
From Saturday the 14th through January 17th, Wreaths Across America has a buy-one-get-one sale. Purchase one wreath for $17. The USS Hannah Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, will get a second one to put on the graves in the Alva Cemetery. There are 145 veterans buried there, and you can benefit the cemetery and our organization by using the code FL0533P. If you want a wreath delivered to another cemetery, please indicate that on the form. Visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/FL0533P to order.
