FRANKFORT, Ky. – Members of the Kentucky Army and Air National Guard joined the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs (KDVA) for its annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Old State Capitol on Dec. 11, 2025.
The tribute, usually held on the second or third Saturday in December, honors fallen Service members by placing wreaths on gravesites and memorials nationwide. KDVA Commissioner Whitney Allen emphasized the importance of the event, which was one of many to be held over the weekend across the Commonwealth, and the nation.
“Today’s ceremony is a humble act that sends a clear message to our Service members and Veterans that we will always honor their selfless sacrifice and service to our nation,” said Allen. “As proud Kentuckians, following this year’s Wreaths Across America 2025 model, which is ‘Moving Forward,’ we solemnly honor our Veterans’ legacy of service and sacrifice across the Commonwealth.”
Soldiers from the 38th Division Artillery, Joint Force Headquarters, and an Airman from the 123rd Airlift Wing provided a joint color guard, and Soldiers from the 202nd Army Band provided musical support for the ceremony.
Eight wreaths were placed outside Kentucky’s Old State Capitol. Governor Andy Beshear laid the first in honor of the U.S. Army, followed by wreaths for each of the other military services.
“Kentuckians have always been there for our country,” said Beshear. “It’s because of our heroic Veterans – those here today, and those who gave their lives for all of us, that we are still the land of the free. Thank you to our Veterans, those with us, and those that have passed, for preserving this amazing, incredible country that we all love.”
Following the service wreaths, Kentucky’s adjutant general, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Haldane Lamberton laid a wreath for Prisoners-of-War and those Missing-in-Action. The final wreath, honoring all Kentuckians currently serving, was placed by Commissioner Allen and KDVA Deputy Commissioner Juan Renaud.
The Wreaths Across America tradition began in 1992, when Morrill Worcester, the owner of a Maine-based wreath company, placed wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery. What started as a private tribute turned into an annual event that has grown each year; by 2024, more than four million volunteers placed over three million wreaths at approximately 4,900 locations.
State Veteran Cemeteries Director Shane LaGrone expressed the significance of the event.
“The wreaths before you represent our commitment as a united America to remember the fallen,” said LaGrone. “We also want this wreath to symbolize our honor to those who have served and are serving in the armed forces of our great nation, and their families who endure the sacrifices every day on our behalf.”
Each element of the evergreen wreath is symbolic: the circular shape represents eternity, the forest scent represents purity, and the red bow represents sacrifice. The ten small bouquets within each wreath signify qualities of a Veteran, such as strength, honor, integrity, humility, and love for fellow Service members.
LaGrone’s closing comment encapsulated the mission of Wreaths Across America: to remember, honor, and teach.
“To our children, we want you to understand that the freedoms you enjoy today have not been free, but have come with a cost someday you may have to pay yourself.”