BELFAST, Maine — The annual Wreaths Across America procession to Arlington National Cemetery passed through Maine on Sunday, arriving in towns and cities across the state on the heels of a thick winter fog.
The parade, which began Saturday, will culminate with thousands of wreaths being delivered to America’s most storied veterans cemetery, where volunteers will place them on the gravestones of fallen servicemembers.
“Every year you remember patriotism is not dead,” Joyce Richmond, who lost her daughter, said of the effort. “I’m an oxymoron. I'm a fortunate Gold Star mother.”
The yearly tradition, which began more than three decades ago, features 13 tractor-trailers, escorted by a hefty flock of police cruisers, some with wreaths hanging from their grills.
While the goal of the procession is to celebrate and honor the sacrifices of those who have died, many Gold Star families say the mission of Wreaths Across America also helps their process of grief.
“You're not supposed to bury your kid first. and to have a hero that you have to bury like that. You don't even know what to expect.” Pam Stemple, President of American Gold Star Mothers, said Sunday. “It just lets them know, in heaven or whatever that they're not forgotten and that their family and other people still love them,” she added.
In addition to the direct family members of the fallen servicemembers, many veterans have been drawn to volunteer for the effort as a way of continuing their connection to the military.
Don Grenier served during the Vietnam War and wiped back tears Sunday while explaining his role as a volunteer with Wreaths Across America.
“It's just emotional,” Grenier said. “I’m happy and pleased to be a part of this.”
The procession will pick up in Portland on Monday morning before leaving the state for Arlington National Cemetery.