The American Legion Post 248 initiated the county’s first Wreaths Across America event at Chastain Memorial Cemetery in Blue Ridge December 13.
Around 325 veterans received wreaths on their graves that day.
John Tucker, senior vice commander for the Legion, led the ceremony, and explained the significance of the event as well as how the wreaths should be place.
“They say in life you can die twice,” he said. “You die when you physically die, and you die when your name is forgotten.”
Tucker added that to commemorate these veterans, their names should be spoken aloud after placing a wreath.
Wreaths Across America is held worldwide on the same day annually to “remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.”