Mandy
The 2025 Wreaths Across America ceremony in Emporia is shaping up to be the largest event the local chapter has ever organized.
Scott Burenheide, the Emporia Location Coordinator, announced that the team intends to collect 2,333 wreaths—one for every veteran buried at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery.
Currently, the number of confirmed wreaths stands at 541, not including more than 1,000 unprocessed check donations.
In comparison, 735 wreaths were placed at the cemetery during last year’s ceremony. The event, along with the wreath-placement activities, is scheduled for December 13 at 11:00 a.m.
Early Placement Opportunities for Family and Loved Ones
Those wishing to place a wreath at a specific veteran’s grave can request precise placement when sponsoring. Burenheide emphasized that families will be given early access.
Family members or sponsors wanting to visit a particular grave will be able to gather at 10:00 a.m., allowing them to sign in, collect their wreath, and spend quiet time with their loved one before the main ceremony begins.
“I want them to have time with their veteran,” Burenheide said. “By coming at 10 a.m., they can honor their loved one before the 11:00 a.m. ceremony and before the larger group begins placing wreaths at noon.”
A Mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach
Last year, Wreaths Across America placed over three million sponsored wreaths on veterans’ graves nationwide.
The organization’s guiding principles—Remember, Honor, and Teach—are reflected in every event. As each wreath is laid, the volunteer speaks the veteran’s name, ensuring their legacy continues.
Burenheide, who brought the program to Emporia three years ago, said the community’s growing participation reaffirms the mission’s importance.
“This isn’t about me or even about the town,” he shared. “It’s about the men and women resting in that cemetery. You die twice—once when your heart stops, and again when your name is spoken for the last time. When we place a wreath, we say their name.”
Call for More Volunteers
As wreath numbers increase, so does the need for community help. Around 25 volunteers have already committed to assisting, but Burenheide emphasized that many more people will be required to cover the entire cemetery.
“Tell your friends and family. Spread the word,” he said. “We’ll need a large group, especially since we’re honoring 100% of our veterans this year.”
Conclusion
The upcoming Wreaths Across America ceremony at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery represents Emporia’s strongest effort yet to honor every veteran laid to rest there.
With ambitious goals, rising community support, and a deep commitment to remembrance, organizers hope to ensure that no veteran is forgotten. As donations increase, volunteers and sponsors play a vital role in keeping this heartfelt tradition alive.
FAQs
1. When will the wreath-placement ceremony take place?
The main ceremony will be held on December 13 at 11:00 a.m., with early placement for family members at 10:00 a.m.
2. How many wreaths are needed to cover all veterans at the cemetery?
A total of 2,333 wreaths are needed to honor every veteran buried at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery.
3. How can someone sponsor a wreath for a specific grave?
Sponsors can indicate the exact grave location when placing their order, ensuring the wreath goes to the intended veteran.