SUFFOLK, Va. — Author's note: The video above is on file from December 20, 2020.
The Horton Wreath Society in Suffolk is seeking donations in preparation for their formal wreath-laying ceremony in December.
The society has laid live balsam wreaths at each grave in the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery every holiday season since 2008.
The non-profit organization's goal is to educate all generations on the brave sacrifices that have been made for our freedoms.
However, every year, the ceremony gets more daunting as more veterans pass away. More wreaths simply cost more money.
This year, the non-profit organization is trying to purchase more than 12,000 wreaths to adorn every burial site at the cemetery for the Dec. 18 wreath-laying event. So far, they're coming up short.
"We need to buy probably 12,050 this year," said Mike Yarbrough, Horton Wreath Society President. "That's what was projected. And I'm looking at the numbers now, and, we're about 1,600 wreaths shorts on funds. That's where we're at."
Yarbrough said because of COVID-19 and last year's ceremony being cut back because of the pandemic, it could be that people who would normally donate simply haven't.
The costs for the wreaths has also recently gone up, from $9.50 to $10 a piece. Every donation helps in the quest to get every grave covered.
"That's always been our goal: 'All or none' was kind of like our motto, you know, to pay respect to the fallen heroes and our veterans," said Yarbrough. "It's just like a beautiful thing. You feel like you've completed the mission. It's giving back to the veterans."
This year's ceremony will feature a tribute, guest speakers, light refreshments and music.
If you can't donate, but want to help, volunteering is an option. You don't have to pre-register to help. This event will be free and open to the public.
If you are interested in making a donation, you can mail it to: Horton Wreath Society, P.O. Box 6246, Virginia Beach, VA, 23456-0246.