More than 8,700 wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery on Saturday, Dec. 16, thanks to broad support from the community. This is a record number and 2,500 more than last year.
A record 8,784 Maine Balsam wreaths were placed on Dec. 16 following a noon ceremony at Zachary Taylor. More than 1,600 volunteers attended, also a record. Attendees placed wreaths on graves in remembrance of the sacrifices veterans have made. Similar ceremonies took place throughout the country at other national cemeteries as part of the National Wreaths Across America Day.” Brownsboro Hardware & Paint assisted in raising funds to purchase the wreaths by taking donations in the store and assisting with web donations.
“I can’t thank our customers and friends enough for stepping up to help again this year,” said Doug Carroll, owner of Brownsboro Hardware & Paint. “More than 900 wreaths were purchased at our two stores alone, and we sponsored another 200. We strongly support people buying one, five, ten, or even 100 wreaths. We are blessed to live in such a caring community and intend to raise enough to break another record next year.”
“While we are not able to cover all 11,300+ veteran graves at Zachary Taylor, this year, we are astounded at the phenomenal community support this year,” said Dr. Scott Giltner, location coordinator, Gov. Isaac Shelby Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution. “When we started this project locally, fewer than one in five veterans’ graves had been sponsored. Since Brownsboro Hardware & Paint got involved, that number has grown dramatically each year. We are so gratified by the kindness of others, and we will continue to work to ensure that every veteran’s grave is covered someday in the future.”
“When a wreath is placed, we ask that the person says the veteran’s name out loud,” said Susan Kalmey, co-location coordinator, the Corn Island Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. “That way, that veteran is never forgotten. Many participants will bring their children to teach them about the contributions that our veterans have made for the betterment of our country.”
About Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America is a national organization that started in 2007. Its mission: Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve. And Teach the next generation about the value of freedom. The organization placed more than 2.5 million wreaths at more than 4,000 locations in 2022. Known for its product quality and tremendous service, Brownsboro Hardware & Paint recently celebrated its 63rd anniversary.
The Better Business Bureau has awarded Brownsboro Hardware & Paint the “Torch Award for Ethics,” and the Prospect Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized Brownsboro Hardware & Paint as “Best Employer.” Brownsboro Hardware & Paint has two locations: 4858 Brownsboro Road in Louisville, and 9521 US 42 in Prospect. Visit brownsborohardware.com for additional information.
