The Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery (GVMC) participated in a nationwide initiative Dec. 13 to honor those who have served in the military with a Wreaths Across America ceremony. Wreaths Across America is a national movement to ensure veterans have a wreath placed upon their graves each December. The event was established by Morrill Worcester in 2007 and has occurred annually.
Hundreds of visitors attended the ceremony at GVMC to place wreaths on graves.
“It warms your heart to look around and see how many people come out to support our cemetery and honor our veterans. We thank all of them,” said cemetery director Linda Lavender.
The theme of this year’s event was “Keep Moving Forward,” a sentiment Tanasia Hall, daughter of Carroll Hall, has carried with her since her father’s passing in 2023.
“My father is buried here. Veterans give their lives for our freedom, for America. The least we can do is lay a wreath to honor them,” said Hall.
The ceremony began with a presentation of colors by the Warner Robins Police Honor Guard. The national anthem was played before the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ret. Col. Dick McCoy of the United States Air Force. A speech was prepared and delivered by state Rep. Floyd L. Griffin Jr., Col. (ret.) of the U.S. Army Reserve.
“Each wreath we lay today is more than just a decoration. It’s a promise, a circle without beginning or end, symbolizing eternal remembrance,” said Griffin. “When we lay a wreath on a headstone, we say two things: We have not forgotten you, and we will carry your example forever and always.”
A musical presentation followed Griffin’s speech, as Russell Faegin, director of the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, played Hank Brake’s song “Thank You” over the cemetery’s speaker system. Brake was a strong GVMC supporter and previously performed the song live at the site but passed away in January 2025.
“Frequently, we remember the fallen and forget those who are still living. So, as Hank says in his song, we want to remember and thank you all now,” said Faegin.
The ceremonial wreath laying over pillars representing different branches of the armed forces was performed by the Patriot Guard Riders and a prisoner of war and missing in action representative.
A three-volley salute was completed by the Marine Corps League, followed by a bugle performance of “Taps.” After closing remarks, families, friends, and supporters moved throughout the cemetery grounds to place a wreath on every headstone.