At Downey Cemetery, all 350 veterans receive wreaths in time for Christmas
DOWNEY — Last Saturday, for the first time ever, Downey Cemetery participated in Wreaths Across America, placing wreaths on the headstones of all 350 veterans buried there.
Downey Cemetery is the final resting place for 350 U.S. military veterans, some dating back to the Civil War era.
This year, across the country at more than 2,700 participating cemeteries like Downey, there are millions of Americans gathering safely as one nation to Remember, Honor and Teach.
Comments made by Downey Cemetery Board Chair and former Mayor Mario A. Guerra reflect the sentiments of the day.
“We are all proud to be Americans that live in a free society made up of many people, from many walks of life,” Guerra said. “The freedoms we enjoy today have not come without a price. Lying here before us and in cemeteries throughout this nation are men and women who gave their lives so that we can live in freedom and without fear.”
The day started with a prayer by Cemetery Board Trustee and also former Mayor Rick Rodriguez.
“Let us start with a moment of silence to remember the fallen, prisoners of war, those missing in action and honor those who have served and are serving this great nation’s armed services,” he said.
Chairman Guerra finished with these comments: “Today, we show a united front of gratitude and respect across the country as we remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.
“We encourage every volunteer here today, who places a wreath on a veteran's grave, to say that veteran’s name aloud and take a moment to thank them for their service to our country. It's a small act that goes a long way toward keeping the memory of our veterans alive.
“Remember, we are not here today to “decorate graves.” We are here to remember not their deaths, but their lives. Each wreath is a gift of appreciation from a grateful America. Thank you to all the volunteers joining us today.“
Volunteers who helped place wreaths included youth groups, and several veteran groups including the American Legion and the Daughters of the American Revolution who also helped support the purchase of the wreaths.
