Wreaths Across America In Claremore In Need Of Donations

Wreaths Across America is a way to remember the service and sacrifice of veterans by placing a wreath at their gravesite during the holiday season. 

Organizers in Claremore said they are short from their goal this year by almost 1,000 wreaths. 

"I think that's the most important part is remembering the freedoms we have. They weren't just given. They were earned," said Chairperson Galela Birdwell. 

The Elks Lodge in Claremore is hosting the event and Birdwell said they are trying to have wreaths on every veteran's headstone. 

"We started out at Woodlawn, and the last couple of years, we've had so many that we were actually able to reach eight local cemeteries," Birdwell said. 

Birdwell said this year the goal is 2,600 wreaths, and they need 970 more to reach that goal. 

She said she's hopeful they will be able to do it. 

If you make a donation for two wreaths online, Wreaths Across America will add a third wreath. 

"Times are tough, we get that, but we are really low, and we are encouraging anyone to use our website so we will get that free additional wreath, and that's the only way we will reach our goal," she said. 

Birdwell said this is personal to her because her husband is an Army veteran and her son is in the Oklahoma National Guard. 

She said this means everything to veterans families. 

"With tears in their eyes, say, 'oh my gosh, we weren't expecting to see that, that's such an awesome thing that y'all are honoring our veteran that y'all don't even know,'" she said. 

Tuesday is the last day to make a donation. The ceremony will be held December 18 at Woodlawn Cemetery in Claremore.

To make a donation, click here.