by ARCADIA, Wis. – On Dec. 16, Ashley Furniture Industries LLC hosted its eighth annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at Soldiers Walk, Memorial Park, in Arcadia, Wisconsin, a premier war memorial outside of Washington.
Wreaths Across America Day is celebrated nationwide at over 3,700 participating locations, and is aimed to honor and remember both our veterans and those currently serving our country.
At Soldiers Walk, the community gathered to lay wreaths at each war memorial, paying homage to those who have bravely served our country. Attendees included Ashley employees, Tickfer-Erickson American Legion Post 17, Boy Scout Troop 64, local veterans, active service members and their families.
At each Wreaths Across America ceremony, a live balsam wreath is carefully placed by volunteers as a gesture of respect on the headstones of our honored veterans. Wreaths are sponsored by individuals or organizations. This tradition serves as a tangible memorial that pays tribute to veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families. As each wreath is laid, the name of the service member is spoken aloud to ensure their memory lives on.
“Engaging in Wreaths Across America allows me to extend my service beyond the uniform, paying tribute to our nation’s valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives, the brave men and women currently in active duty, and to educate others on the profound contributions of these exemplary individuals,” said Steve Ralston, director of Transportation Safety & Compliance, Ashley Distribution Services. “Ashley’s involvement in this campaign resonates with the deep-seated respect and appreciation for our military, a sentiment vigorously shared by our founder, Ron Wanek, and his family.”
Ahead of Wreaths Across America Day, a parade of trucks known as the ‘Honor Fleet’ commenced in Maine and delivered wreaths to participating cemeteries along the east coast. Ashley Distribution Services (ADS) proudly routed Ashley trucks and trailers to deliver 48,384 wreaths to 62 cemeteries across the United States. Since 2017, ADS has delivered a total of 191,115 wreaths to 241 cemeteries on behalf of Wreaths Across America.
“A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the volunteers and the individuals and businesses that sponsored wreaths for the Arcadia event,” the company said. “Your unwavering support and recognition of our U.S. Veterans are truly appreciated.”
