Rhymes Library society to sponsor Wreathes Across America
The Original Richland Library Restoration Society kicked off its 2025 Wreaths Across America Campaign at the end of June with WAA’s “Giving in July,” thus providing a chance for wreath sponsors to get their orders in early.
The executive committee of the board of trustees of the ORLRS announced this week our Giving In July was a true success and we are half way to our goal of 1088 wreaths needed for the Northeast Louisiana Veterans’ Cemetery with over 550 wreaths already sponsored.
The date set for the WAA Remembrance Ceremony is 11 a.m. Dec. 13, with the wreath laying to follow shortly thereafter, giving everyone attending a chance to be part of the wreath laying ceremony. Family and friends are encouraged to be a part by remembering and speaking their names, thereby, never forgetting your loved ones sacrifice.
Wreaths Across America has grown exponentially since its inception. The same is true here in Richland and the other parishes which the NLVC services. Besides providing wreaths for the NLVC, sponsors are encouraged to place wreaths on veterans’ gravesites all over Northeast Louisiana and points beyond, wherever a fallen soldier is interred.
Those volunteer members of the ORLRS who sell sponsorships, those who purchase wreaths and the many who turn out to lay wreaths at the NLVC and points beyond are the driving force that makes it possible for veterans all over, both living and dead to be honored and thanked for their service to our nation and our individual freedoms.
We must remember we are the “Land of the Free” because of those souls who served both here and abroad.
When the call came, whether it was by volunteering or by national draft, they stepped up to the challenge. Yes, we have lost so many during the various conflicts and wars, but those that made it back home ... many will tell you they would do it again if need be.
There are hundreds of cemeteries across Northeast Louisiana and beyond which hold the remains of family members, friends, distant relatives, and total strangers who served in all branches of our military. The veterans need to be respected, recognized and honored ... they did it for us, you, me and our children.
We, therefore, should be proud of all who have served. A way to show that pride and to honor them is to sponsor a wreath that can be placed on a ceteran’s gravesite somewhere near you.
Sponsorship forms are available at the Rhymes Memorial Building in Rayville, or by contacting ORLRS executive members or office manager, Dellie Hicks, leaving message at 318-417-6625.
General office hours are 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. Please leave messages at 318-728--4127. We are your local WAA headquarters for this area.
