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This holiday season, a significant partnership between Meijer and Wreaths Across America continues to honor the nation's veterans. Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to placing wreaths on veterans' graves and recognizing the service of active-duty military personnel and their families.
Meijer's Outbound Logistics Team has reached a new milestone by delivering wreaths to 13 veterans' cemeteries in Michigan and Ohio, marking the largest effort yet for the team. Among these locations are Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, Michigan, Toledo Memorial Park in Sylvania, Ohio, and several smaller cemeteries including those in Hillsdale, Jackson, and Concord. Volunteers participated in National Wreaths Across America Day by placing wreaths on veterans' graves.
Dave Hoover, Director of Outbound Logistics at Meijer and a U.S. Army veteran, explained their process: “We work with cemeteries and the VFW [Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.] halls to make deliveries the week prior so they’re ready for the wreath-laying ceremonies.” He added that many drivers are veterans who take pride in this task as it allows them to continue serving and honoring fellow service members.
Wreath donations come from individuals or organizations and are laid by volunteers as an expression of respect. Volunteers say each veteran's name aloud when placing a wreath to keep their memory alive.
In 2024, Wreaths Across America plans to place over 2 million wreaths at more than 4,600 locations across all 50 states, at sea, and abroad. This initiative is part of their mission to "Remember, Honor, and Teach."
Beyond cemetery deliveries, Meijer's partnership with Wreaths Across America includes sponsoring their Mobile Education Exhibit in 2022. The exhibit toured communities in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana educating visitors about veterans’ sacrifices while serving as an official "welcome home" station for Vietnam veterans.
Dave Hoover reflected on the tradition: “For centuries, fresh evergreens have symbolized honor and renewal,” he said. “This tradition is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices our veterans have made and the freedoms we enjoy because of them.”
Meijer expresses its continued support for Wreaths Across America's mission.
