Wreaths Across America observances from area
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Today's community page is devoted to some of the local observances Dec. 18 of Wreaths Across America of which there were many.
The Unionport Order of Eastern Star Chapter 360 expanded the number of cemeteries registered to have wreaths sponsored for veterans' graves to include Richmond Presbyterian Cemetery and Richmond Union Cemetery. That was thanks to the work of Le'Ann Gibbons, chapter secretary and past worthy matron, who served as local coordinator.
Mark Morris, a paramedic at Richmond Fire and Rescue, was the speaker at both locations where Tom McConnell, Salem Township trustee, was master of ceremonies. Also participating were Richmond American Legion Post 740 Honored Seven members, Edison High School choir representatives and Future Farmers of America chapter members.
"I have heard many stories and of events over the years from family and friends who have served before me and those who I had served alongside and today I would like to share some of my experiences and stories with you," Morris said, noting that during his time in the Air Force, he was a fireman.
"It took me all over the world where I had met great people and had some amazing experiences. One of the most humbling experiences that I was fortunate to encounter was a temporary duty assignment to Cherbourg, France. We were there for the 70th re-enactment of the Normandy invasion," he said. "During my time there, I encountered some of the humbling experiences as a military member during my tenure. Standing on the grounds of the Normandy American Cemetery, Pointe du Hoc, Omaha and Utah beach was one experience that will never leave me. Another experience that will never leave me is when in Normandy, those who live there today still remember what was done for them and would thank us even though we had no part in the invasion, but they wanted us to know they never forgot," Morris said.
"To those here today, to those across the nation and to those interred here, your selfless actions have a great impact across the nation and the world and those actions have not been forgotten," he said. "'Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.' It is due to those that serve that we stand here today to recognize them and because of them that we can stand here today free."