MABANK–The National non-profit, Wreaths Across America (WAA) has joined with Sarah Maples Chapter, National Society Daughters of the Americal Revolution (NSDAR) to support the mission of WAA, Saturday, Dec. 17.  The mission is to remember the nation’s fallen, honor military service and teach others of their sacrifices for us to live freely, today. WAA started this simple gesture of thanks and it has grown to a national movement of dedicated volunteers and communities. Here at Cedar Creek Lake the official locations for this honor are Eubanks Memorial Park and Oak Lawn Cemetery, both located on the outskirts of Mabank.
The goal of raising enough funds to place a live, balsam fir wreath with red bow on each service members grave (over 600 graves) has been met for this year with the generous donations and sponsorships by individuals, clubs, churches and local businesses. 
“We are forever grateful for the thousands of supporters who dedicate their time and efforts to raise awareness in their local communities,” said Executive Director of Wreaths Across America Karen Worcester. “These folks know the value of remembering the fallen, honoring those who currently serve and teaching the next generation about the sacrifices they and their families have made for our freedom…without their generous support, Wreaths Across America would not exist.” Those interested in volunteering to place a wreath to honor a vet are invited to participate in these events Saturday, Dec. 17 this year. This is a free, public event. 
At Eubanks Cedar Creek Memorial Park there are 191 veterans who will have a wreath placed on their grave at 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 17. Eubanks Cedar Creek memorial Park is located on State Hwy 198 about three miles north of Mabank in the direction of Canton. 
Oak Lawn Cemetery has 421 veterans who will have a wreath laid on their grave at 12 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17. Oak Lawn Cemetery is located on State Hwy 175 outside of Mabank in the direction of Athens. 
Wreaths Across America is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the wreath laying at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman, Morrill Worcester in 1992. Over 3,679 cemeteries are official locations in the U.S.A. with 26 cemeteries overseas. Explore videos on YouTube for historical information and photos.
For additional information locally contact Susan Martz-Cothran by email susanmartzcothran@yahoo.com.