Wreaths Across America - and North Idaho

COEUR d’ALENE — The annual Wreaths Across America ceremony is scheduled on Saturday at Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens to honor fallen veterans.

Kathy Bush, event coordinator, remembers visiting her father’s grave at Fort Sam Houston National Military Cemetery.

“I arrived at his grave and there was this beautiful wreath laid in front of it,” Bush said. “I still get choked up every time I think about it.”

The unexpected surprise four years ago spurred Bush into getting involved with Wreaths Across America in her hometown. Bush went to the Coeur d’Alene Kiwanis Club for support and they were happy to help.

The tradition was born in 1992, when Morrill and Karen Worcester, owners of the Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine, found themselves with thousands of wreaths left over toward the end of the holiday season.

Not wanting them to go to waste, the Worcesters reached out to Arlington National Cemetery, a place Morrill had visited as a child.

Wreaths were laid at the base of the white headstones to honor America’s veterans. The tradition has continued to this day.

Over 3,100 cemeteries nationwide will participate this year, with over 2 million wreaths being placed.

Bush’s team has raised enough money for 800 wreaths.

“I want to honor as many veterans as we can,” she said.

The ceremony begins at 9 a.m. Mayor Steve Widmyer is scheduled to make an address.

"I think it's important to always remember and honor our veterans for their service and sacrifice," Widmyer said.

Rathdrum's Pinegrove Cemetery will also host a ceremony, also at 9 a.m. Saturday. American Legion Post 154 Commander Dee Sasse will give an address and Post 154 will post the colors, lead the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer. Kylie Paquette will sing the national anthem.

The public is welcome. To donate for a wreath to place on a veteran's grave, contact Bush at kathybush58@gmail.com or contact Barbara Williams in Rathdrum at 208-691-7964.