The ninth edition of Wreaths Across America, themed “Keep Moving Forward”, was held on Saturday, Dec.13 at Highlands Memorial Park, honoring veterans’ graves with donated wreaths. A total of 1,115 wreaths were sponsored, with 575 contributed to NCHLCH — Highlands Cemetery, 434 donated to the State Veterans Cemetery at Black Mountain, and 106 saved for 2026.
The event began with a special ceremony at the Highlands Community Building, followed by the laying of remembrance wreaths. Wreaths Across America follows the motto, “Remember, Honor, and Teach”.
“As we lay each veteran’s wreath, we say their name and thank them for their service,” said Location Coordinator Phil Potts. “That way, we just keep them in our memory and they’re never forgotten.”
Local volunteers, along with American Legion Post 370, played key roles in the process, creating a meaningful experience for the veterans’ families.
While Highlands Cemetery was the initial focus of the local Wreaths Across America, the program quickly expanded to nearby cemeteries as word spread. Potts and other organizers now collect donations for nine local cemeteries in Georgia and North Carolina. This year alone, they have seen an addition of nearly 500 sponsored wreaths.
According to Potts, the community response, especially from veteran families, has been outstanding.
“They’re very appreciative and it’s been a great response,” said Potts. “A lot of folks from out of town that can’t get here can use the online purchasing sponsorship. That way, they can know that their families are being honored up here.”
Wreaths Across America serves more than 5,200 cemeteries nationwide thanks to the help of over 2 million volunteers.
Wreath clean up will take place on Jan.17, 2026 at 1 p.m.
- Mitch Stone
reporter@highlandsnews.com