Wreaths Across America, Nation’s Oldest City: Remembers, Honors, Teaches
St. Augustine, FL, Cemetery in Nation’s Oldest City: Community and veterans lay wreaths to Remember, Honor, and Teach
Bill Dudley (Lt Col USAF, retired) and Chairman of the St John County Veterans Council presided over the Wreaths Across America ceremony in the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine. The Honorable Judge McGillan gave the keynote speech. He highlighted the story of one World War II veteran laid to rest at the St. Augustine National Cemetery. Of note, leaders of the city and county, veterans organizations, families, and youth groups participated and laid wreaths (or flags) in the spirit of “Remember, Honor, Teach”, the motto of Wreaths Across America.
Youth and Community Volunteers
This dedicated community always shows up in mass, and the eager volunteers adorned every grave with dignity and honor. Especially heartwarming was to see the youth, such as the Navy Sea Cadets, a JROTC flag detail, and the Boy Scouts, playing major roles in the ceremony. As a bonus, the Florida weather was clear and gorgeous at 74 degrees. Likewise, all across the United States at the same time, family members and volunteers placed wreaths at every US national cemetery (over 3,700 cemeteries where fallen from the Revolutionary War to the present day are buried). Since I could not be at the Ft Bliss National Cemetery, I bought a wreath for my father. A volunteer placed that wreath on the grave of Jose Aguon Charsagua, US Army, in El Paso, TX. Grateful.
Wreaths for US Military Branches of Service
Every year, Mr. Dudley invites veterans to place wreaths for each US military branch of service. We both did our part, presenting the USAF and USMC wreaths, along with our brothers and sisters in arms representing each service. Veterans also represented the nation’s newest service, US Space Force. Additionally, veterans paid respects to POW and MIA members.
Never quit! Finish the Mission
Danny knew the mission was to place the USMC wreath on a stand, a 30-foot walk. However, he felt weak and faint…
He knew he had to ask for help. He knew he had to accomplish this task at all costs.
As Danny stood up, his legs were wobbly. Me (Jackie) and fellow USMC veteran Chris held his arms as he trudged to the wreath stand, where his legs were crumbling beneath him.
First Responders Leap into Action
Immediately THE Sheriff of St Johns County, his wife (a nurse), and others swarmed to our aid because they saw him going down. Danny experienced low blood sugar and dehydration. He nearly collapsed. Another sheriff grabbed a chair to keep him from hitting the ground. Just in time.
There was such an outpouring of love and concern.
After ingesting some sugar and water, Danny exclaimed, “I am OK. I love you!” Then the relieved crowd clapped for Danny.
We were humbled by the love and care, as the top officials came to our aid and cared for Danny.
Moreso, our dear friends the Taliaferros were by our side, escorting Danny and holding him up.
After the EMTs examined Danny, he was whisked to the ambulance, with Sheriff Hardwick at his side the whole time.
As a result, we spent the afternoon in the ER. This event was a lesson to prioritize health.
Danny said, “I can never quit. I experienced the love of God through the love of people. I was touched by God. Thank you, Jesus. I am whole and healed.”
What an incredibly meaningful day in so many aspects.