Wreaths Across America Visits Delaware Tech's Stanton Campus

The country’s longest veterans’ parade, Wreaths Across America’s annual “Escort to Arlington,” stopped at Delaware Tech’s Stanton Campus on Dec. 15. The 12-truck convoy passed through Delaware on its way to Arlington National Cemetery to deliver wreaths to our nation’s interred veterans. The official escort travels down the East Coast stopping at schools, memorials, and other locations along the way to spread the mission to REMEMBER, HONOR, and TEACH.

The Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit was on campus, and a special pinning ceremony took place before the caravan traveled south. The ceremony included a Presentation of Color by the Delaware Military Academy Color Guard, and a keynote speech from David Mosely of the Delaware Center for Homeless Veterans. Maj. Gen. (retired) Francis D. Vavala, the college’s veterans advocacy specialist, was the master of ceremonies.

What began 30 years ago as a pilgrimage by Maine wreath-maker, Morrill Worcester, in a single truck to deliver 5,000 wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery as a gesture of gratitude has become a national mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach. National Wreaths Across America Day ceremonies will take place at more than 3,600 participating locations across the country on  Dec. 17.

Participants for this year’s convoy include Gold Star Families, Blue Star Families, veterans, volunteers, first responders, members of the Patriot Guard Riders and Patriot Riders, and representatives from Wreaths Across America.

PHOTO: Maj. Gen. (retired) Frank Vavala, the College's veterans advocacy specialist, introduces the Wreaths Across America program.