Carlsbad Participates in Wreaths Across America Observance

By Misty Cryer

At the local Wreaths Across America ceremony on December 13, 401 remembrance wreaths were placed on the gravesites of veterans at Sunset Gardens Cemetery.

The Thomas Jefferson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) sponsored the event, with many community members and organizations sponsoring wreaths, participating in the ceremony, and volunteering to make the local gathering special on National Wreaths Across America Day.

When opening the ceremony, Sarah Campbell, Chapter Region for the local DAR chapter, said, “Thank you for joining us today as we pause for a moment to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, their families, and teach the next generation of the true cost of freedom.”

A prayer was delivered by Tina Kincaid, the Chaplain for the Thomas Jefferson Chapter of the DAR, followed by the presentation of colors with the Carlsbad Police Department. Carlsbad Early College High School (CECHS) Choir sang the national anthem.

Addressing the crowd, Campbell explained that Wreaths Across America ceremonies were happening in unison in all 50 U.S. states and territories and at 26 American cemeteries overseas to ensure that the nation’s heroes were honored and remembered wherever they rest.

“This year, across the country at 5,600 participating locations—like here in Carlsbad—millions of Americans are gathering as one nation to remember, honor, teach. The liberties that we enjoy today have not come without a price,” she said.

In remembrance of the fallen, Campbell said, “Lying here before us and in cemeteries throughout this nation are men and women who have served our country, given their lives, so that we may live in freedom and without fear.” She briefly discussed some of the freedoms that come from these sacrifices.

In addition to thanking those who gave their lives, Campbell acknowledged those who served and lived with the lingering effects of that service. Throughout the speech, veterans, active-duty service members, and their families were honored and thanked for their service.

Explaining that the United States of America was founded on the ideals of freedom, justice, and equal opportunity, Campbell said, “Our nation stands as a shining beacon of liberty and justice to the world.”

As part of the teaching, Campbell shared a quote from the 40th President of the United States of America, Ronald Reagan: “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on to them for them to do the same, or we must spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.”

Prior to welcoming Mayor Lopez to say a few words, Campbell announced that the day marked the 100th anniversary of the DAR Thomas Jefferson Chapter. “We are honored to partner with Wreaths Across America, helping to gain 328 sponsored wreaths that we lay here today,” she said. Later in the ceremony, it was announced that the DAR Region donated the remaining wreaths to cover all 401 veterans at the cemetery.

In his address, Mayor Lopez said, “Today is dedicated to remembering veterans who have served our country. We honor our veterans, not only today, but every day of the year.”

He thanked the DAR for making the ceremony possible, the volunteers at the event, the families of veterans who continue to share their loved ones’ stories, the veterans, and those who sponsored a wreath. “Your contributions are greatly appreciated,” he said.

The CECHS Choir sang a piece called “A Tribute to the Armed Services Medley,” which features the themes of each military branch, said Choir Director Robin Irving. “A veteran of each branch stepped forward to place the ceremonial wreath as their song was featured,” she said.

Anna Goetz, Vice Regent of the Thomas Jefferson Chapter of the DAR, who was responsible for organizing and implementing the event, said, “The last three wreaths represent the first responders—the police department, our country, and the space force.” She demonstrated how wreaths should be placed and provided related instructions to the volunteers and veterans who placed the wreaths.

In closing, Campbell expressed gratitude to the event’s attendees, participants, and supporters, including Mayor Lopez, the Carlsbad Police Department, the CECHS Choir, Genesis Endeavors, and A&R Special Bakery. A special mention was made of Anna Goetz, whom Campbell said was the “driving force” behind bringing Wreaths Across America to Carlsbad.

Reiterating the 100th anniversary of the Thomas Jefferson Chapter of the DAR, she thanked Jolene Goodwin, the former Chapter Regent, for being one of the strong forces behind it.

Photos credited to Aaron and Robin Irving