UPDATE: On December 13, 2025, Gethsemane Cemetery in Muhlenberg Township came alive with emotion as over 100 attendees gathered to honor veterans during the annual National Wreaths Across America Day. This significant event saw volunteers place wreaths at the gravesites of over 1,300 veterans, offering a heartfelt tribute to those who served.
The ceremony, which aims to remember, honor, and teach about the sacrifices of veterans, drew participants like Leeann DeFusco and her husband Christopher, who made a poignant journey from East Nantmeal Township. Leeann, whose parents both passed away last year, placed a green pine wreath adorned with a red bow at her father’s grave, a moment rich with personal significance.
“It’s to honor their memory,” Christopher DeFusco expressed, emphasizing the importance of remembering their loved ones, including Leeann’s grandfather, a World War I veteran buried at the same site. The couple also contributed financially to lay wreaths for other veterans, demonstrating gratitude for the service provided by those honored.
The Wreaths Across America initiative, founded in 1992 by Morrill Worcester, has expanded phenomenally, mobilizing over 2 million volunteers this year alone. More than 3 million handmade, balsam fir wreaths were laid at over 5,200 locations across the United States and abroad, reinforcing the mission to celebrate the lives and service of veterans.
Jackie Grauert, assistant director of Gethsemane Cemetery, highlighted the cemetery’s commitment to this meaningful cause, stating, “We just want to give back to our veterans; they have done so much for us.” This marked the second year Gethsemane has participated in the event, and Grauert described the turnout as “heartwarming.”
As the ceremony began, participants witnessed a somber yet uplifting moment, as taps was played by Randall Mutter of the Buccaneers Alumni, further amplifying the emotional impact of the day.
Leeann and Christopher expressed their appreciation for the community turnout during such a busy holiday season, noting, “People are taking the time to do this at a busy time,” reflecting a collective spirit of gratitude for veterans.
“This beautiful thing brings us all together,” Grauert said, as volunteers worked diligently to ensure that every veteran’s grave was honored with a wreath. The event showcased the community’s commitment to remembering those who served, reinforcing the values of respect and remembrance that define Wreaths Across America.
With heartfelt tributes continuing nationwide, participants at Gethsemane Cemetery are reminded of the sacrifices made by veterans, ensuring their memories will endure for generations to come. The event stands as a testament to the ongoing love and respect for those who have served, creating a powerful moment of unity and remembrance.
