Pack 1519 Wreaths Across America

From Webelos Leader Todd Wheeler

Greetings!

Pack 1519 encourages all Scouts to participate in the annual "Wreaths Across America" event on Saturday, December 14, 2019.  At this event, participants place wreaths on the headstones of our fallen soldiers and say the name of each veteran aloud as an act of honor and remembrance. 

"REMEMBER the fallen... HONOR those who serve... TEACH our children the value of freedom."

There are two local events that you and your Scout may attend:

• Alexandria National Cemetery - 1450 Wilkes Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314 - 12:00 PM:  This is a lovely event.  However, because the cemetery is relatively small, you must be sure to arrive early if you want to be sure to lay a wreath or two. The event begins promptly at 12:00 PM, and is over within a matter of minutes!  There is usually a traditional band and apple cider available.  Find your other Pack 1519 scouts near the flagpole inside the cemetery.  You may find it easiest to park at the Whole Foods Market, 1700 Duke Street, Alexandria, and make the short walk over to the cemetery.
• Arlington National Cemetery - 8:30 AM:  This event is obviously much larger that the Alexandria event, so your Scout will have the opportunity to lay as many wreaths as he wishes.  However, the event does start rather early in the morning.  Also, there is usually a massive crowd, and Arlington cemetery is a vast place, so parents must be sure to monitor their children closely, especially on the Metro platforms and upon arrival at the cemetery.  Arlington cemetery is an awesome, sacred place and will be an unforgettable experience for you and your Scout.  Take the Metro blue line from Franconia-Springfield station to Arlington National Cemetery. 
  

I encourage Scouts and parents to discuss within their Dens which of the above events they might want to attend.  I have encouraged my WEBELOS to do either event.  Myself and some of the WEBELOS scouts will be going to the Arlington event; and will be meeting at the Franconia-Springfield Metro station at 8:00 AM on Saturday, December 14.  Others are welcome to join us if you like!

  

Scouts should be looking smart in their Class A uniform, and should be reminded in advance that this is a solemn event that requires their utmost respect, courtesy, and good behavior.  No running and playing on the cemetery grounds!

SPONSOR A WREATH:  Finally you may sponsor a wreath by making a donation through the Wreaths Across America website, located here: https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/.  

As always, thank you for your support of Pack 1519!