http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-939436.mp3
Keokuk, IA – Jason Parrott's guests are Gary Folluo and Suzy Glasscock. They talk about the upcoming Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Keokuk National Cemetery.
In 1992, a wreath-maker from Maine donated 5,000 wreaths to Arlington National Ceremony. They were laid upon the graves of soldiers throughout the complex.
Over the last 18 years, Wreaths Across America has expanded to locations in all 50 states, cemeteries in more than 25 countries, and naval ships around the world.
Folluo and Glasscock helped bring the ceremony to the Keokuk National Cemetery 5 years ago. They say their involvement came about because of their sincere appreciation of veterans and the cemetery.
Wreaths Across America gets underway at 12:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 10 at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremonies around the world will take place, simultaneously, so Keokuk's will begin at 11:00 A.M.
Glasscock says 317 wreaths were put in place earlier this week. Wreaths in honor of each branch of the U.S. military will be set up the day of the ceremony.
Glasscock says people can purchase a wreath for a specific grave site for $15. She says donations without a specific soldier identified will also be accepted.
The money is collected to purchase the fresh, 20" wreaths from the original wreath-maker who made the donation to Arlington National Cemetery.
You can learn more about Wreaths Across America by clicking this link.