A significant ceremony took place on December 13, 2025, at Gethsemane Cemetery in Muhlenberg Township, where community members honored veterans by participating in National Wreaths Across America Day. This event encourages the placement of wreaths on the graves of veterans to pay tribute to their service and memory.
Among the participants were Christopher and Leeann DeFusco, who traveled from East Nantmeal Township to honor Leeann’s parents, Joseph and Marie Geigus, who passed away nearly a year ago. At their gravesite, Leeann placed a green pine wreath adorned with a red bow, a gesture that held deep personal significance for her. “Visiting their final resting place felt like a perfect way to mark the anniversary,” she explained.
The event, established in 1992 by Morrill Worcester of Worcester Wreath Company in Maine, saw over 2 million volunteers and supporters across more than 5,200 locations this year. Approximately 3 million handmade balsam fir wreaths were laid, emphasizing the event’s mission to remember, honor, and teach about veterans who have passed away.
Given her father’s service in the Air Force and her grandfather John Matthews’ service as a World War I Army veteran, Leeann felt compelled to participate. “It’s to honor their memory,” Christopher noted, reflecting on the importance of respect for their sacrifices. The couple also contributed financially to ensure that wreaths were placed for other veterans, feeling a sense of gratitude towards those who served.
As the DeFuscos joined more than 100 attendees in the cemetery, they expressed their appreciation for the turnout. “It makes me feel good that our veterans are being remembered,” Leeann remarked. Christopher added, “People are taking the time to do this at a busy time,” highlighting the collective effort to honour veterans during the holiday season.
Jackie Grauert, assistant director of Gethsemane Cemetery, shared her enthusiasm for the event. This marked the second year the cemetery participated in Wreaths Across America, and she emphasized the desire to give back to those who have served. “We just want to do something special for them,” Grauert stated.
On this day, wreaths were laid on approximately 1,300 of the nearly 5,000 veteran graves at Gethsemane. Volunteers contributed their time and effort to ensure that each grave was honored. Grauert remarked, “It definitely warms all of our hearts,” as she observed the community’s support for the event.
The ceremony included the playing of Taps by Randall Mutter of Muhlenberg Township, accompanied by the Buccaneers Alumni. This poignant moment further underscored the solemnity of the occasion as attendees reflected on the sacrifices made by veterans.
As the day came to a close, the gathering at Gethsemane Cemetery stood as a testament to the community’s commitment to remembering those who served. The spirit of gratitude and respect permeated the air, reminding everyone of the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices that veterans have made for their country.
