Honoring Our Veterans: The Wreaths of Honor Initiative

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — This festive season, over 250 stunning ⁣wreaths will be displayed on ​the historic Battleship North Carolina as​ a heartfelt⁢ homage to both ⁤veterans and‌ actively serving military personnel. This‍ initiative is spearheaded by ‍the Friends of ⁣the Battleship North Carolina.

A Symbolic Display of Unity and Remembrance

The 20-inch evergreen ​wreaths, contributed by families and friends from across the nation, will be showcased along the ship’s lifelines starting on Saturday, December 7. Their presence will grace this iconic vessel until early January, signifying​ its third ‍consecutive year for the “Wreaths of Honor” program.

A Moment to Reflect

On Saturday afternoon around 1 p.m., ‍volunteers participating‍ in this tribute will⁣ pause for ‌a moment of silence in remembrance of those who​ lost their lives during the⁣ attack on Pearl Harbor—an essential ⁣date in American⁤ history that we honor with deep reverence.

Paying ⁣Tribute to Our Fallen Heroes

Additonally, wreaths will also adorn special areas within the battleship itself: one set will occupy the Memorial Room—a poignant tribute dedicated to over 11,000 brave men from North Carolina who perished during World War II. Another ‌collection will​ be placed in the Crew Roster Room which commemorates⁤ approximately 8,000 sailors and Marines who served aboard USS North ​Carolina between its commissioning in 1941 until it decommissioned in 1947.

This ongoing tradition serves as an important reminder not just⁤ during holiday celebrations but throughout all seasons ‌about sacrifice and service—reflecting a nation’s gratitude toward‍ those who’ve defended our freedom.