ARCADIA, Wis. – On Dec. 16, Ashley Furniture Inds. hosted its eighth annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at Soldiers Walk, Memorial Park, in Arcadia, Wis.
Wreaths Across America Day is celebrated nationwide at more than 3,700 participating locations, honoring and remembering both our veterans and those currently serving our country.
At Soldiers Walk, the community gathered to lay wreaths at each war memorial. Attendees included Ashley employees, Tickfer-Erickson American Legion Post 17, Boy Scout Troop 64, local veterans, active service members and their families.
At each Wreaths Across America ceremony, a live balsam wreath was carefully placed by volunteers. As each wreath is laid, the name of the service member is spoken aloud to ensure their memory lives on.
“Engaging in Wreaths Across America allows me to extend my service beyond the uniform, paying tribute to our nation’s valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives, the brave men and women currently in active duty, and to educate others on the profound contributions of these exemplary individuals,” stated Steve Ralston, director of transportation safety & compliance, Ashley Distribution Services. “Ashley’s involvement in this campaign resonates with the deep-seated respect and appreciation for our military, a sentiment vigorously shared by our founder, Ron Wanek, and his family.”
Prior to Wreaths Across America Day, a parade of trucks known as the ‘Honor Fleet’ commenced in Maine and delivered wreaths to participating cemeteries along the East Coast. Ashley Distribution Services routed Ashley trucks and trailers to deliver 48,384 wreaths to 62 cemeteries. Since 2017, ADS has delivered a total of 191,115 wreaths to 241 cemeteries on behalf of Wreaths Across America.