Reps. McCarty and France Welcome Wreaths Across America to Connecticut

MONTVILLE – As part of a grand welcome parade held on Tuesday at St. Bernard’s High School in Montville, State Representatives Kathleen McCarty (R-38) and Mike France (R-42) honored our country’s fallen veterans and those who serve as numerous Gold Star Families and trucks carrying wreaths pulled up to the school.

“Wreaths Across America honors the sacrifice made by all Americans who serve their country by remembering and celebrating their lives,” said Rep. McCarty, a Civil Air Patrol Major. “As we
sponsor a truck or lay a wreath, we speak that veteran’s name aloud and thank them for their service to our country. Together we can spread kindness and remembrance in this way, and keep our spirit of gratitude
and national pride alive for generations to come.”

“Remember, Honor and Teach: What a phenomenal mission,” said. Rep. France, who shared at the ceremony a reflection on what an honor it is to have served 20 years on active duty in the U.S. Navy. “Remember our fallen U.S. veterans, Honor those who serve, and Teach our children the value
of freedom. I commend the students at St. Bernard’s to look back at the founding of this Wreaths Across America tradition. Its origin can be found in one simple trip to Washington, D.C. by a 12-year-old boy who would later be inspired by his experience to donate 5,000 wreaths to Arlington in 1992. I encourage you, America’s youth, to consider serving such an honorable cause. I challenge you to seek opportunities of service in your community that contribute to the preservation of freedom and liberty enjoyed by United States citizens in everything that you do.”

The trucks, which started in Harrington, Maine, will continue on to Arlington, Virginia where – on December 17th – they will lay a wreath on every headstone in the National Cemetery.