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CAP Units in South Dakota Place Wreaths on Graves of Veterans

December 21, 2021

Two squadrons in South Dakota Wing were responsible for over 450 wreaths for the graves of veterans.  The wreaths were placed in separate ceremonies on the national Wreaths Across America day, Saturday December 18.

Crazy Horse Composite Squadron in Custer raised funds for 324 wreaths for veteran’s graves at Custer Community Cemetery. Capt. Donald Weiand, squadron commander, noted that there are 384 veteran graves in the cemetery, and wreaths for all of them are the squadron’s goals for next year.

“Custer may be a small community,” Weiand said, “but we have big hearts and it was truly a community effort to reach this goal.”

Lincoln County Composite Squadron, which meets at Tea, raised money for 130 wreaths at the South Dakota Veteran’s Cemetery near Sioux Falls.

“I am truly grateful that WAA gives us a way to honor those who gave their lives for our country,” said Capt. Denise Clement, Lincoln County squadron commander. “I hold a deep respect for those who have served and are serving our country.”

Wreaths Across America began locally in Morrill Worcester. In 2005 the project gained national attention. Civil Air Patrol and other organizations have embraced it as an important project each year to remember the men and women who served the United States, honor them military and their families, and teach young people about freedom and those who protect it.

Ceremonies at the two South Dakota locations supported by CAP included guest speakers and organizations such as the Midwest Honor Flight, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Daughters of the American Revolution and other local organizations. 

At the Custer ceremony, CAP member Hunter Rice, home on leave from the US Marine Corps, represented both CAP and the Marine Corps.

 

 

Tagged As: Wreaths Across America

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