Woodbridge’s American Heritage Girls Troop VA 0428 took part in this year’s Wreaths Across America at the Arlington National Cemetery.
In spite of the icy, wintry weather on December 17, the girls were out laying wreaths at the cemetery to honor the veterans buried there.
“The volunteers who were able to be there that cold and icy morning worked quickly together to place wreaths at every grave,” said Troop Leader Carrie Kilareski.
This year more than 245,000 graves were honored and it was the third year for the Wreaths Across America received enough donations to place a wreath on every grave at Arlington National Cemetery.
“Many of the AHG girls who went laid more wreaths than previous years because of the low volunteer turnout. They worked hard throughout the big cemetery to honor each veteran, also pausing to read the tombstone and honor the veteran,” said Kilareski.
The troop was able to sponsor 876 wreaths due to their fundraising efforts.
“We really want to thank Panera Bread because they generously let us have a table in front of their restaurant every Saturday in October and November plus Veteran’s Day seeking donations for this great cause. Thank you also to community members who supported us through the website, at Panera Bread table or through people you knew in the troop,” said Kilareski.
