STEUBENVILLE — Freedom has a cost. And that cost can be seen etched into stones across the country.

Every name which is placed on a headstone tells a story about courage, about sacrifice and about service.

There are far too many heroes who have no one left to visit their graves or to every say their names aloud anymore.

And that is why Wreaths Across America exists. The organization was created as a way to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom.

The effort is made possible by many supporters who believe in its mission. On Dec. 13, millions of volunteers will gather at cemeteries nationwide to lay wreaths and speak each veteran’s name.

To become a part of this mission, and to sponsor a veteran’s wreath or sign up to volunteer at one of the more than 5,500 participating locations, visit learn/wreathsacrossamerica.org.