More than 5,600 locations nationwide participated in this year’s Wreaths Across America on December 13. Thousands of Americans descended on cemeteries throughout the country to assist in the laying of holiday wreaths at the grave markers of the nation’s veterans. The cleanup of the wreaths is a work-in-progress that continues in many of the nation’s cemeteries.

Among the willing and able participants in the laying of the wreaths at the Alexandria National Cemetery was the Rowe family, husband and children of Interim Executive Director Lea Rowe.

Located fewer than two blocks from BVA National Headquarters as the crow flies, the cemetery is a small national cemetery of approximately 5.5 acres administered by VA’s National Cemetery Administration. It is one of the original national cemeteries established in 1862 and the site of more than 4,500 interments beginning with Union soldiers who died in the numerous hospitals in the Alexandria area. The cemetery can still accommodate the cremated remains of a few eligible individuals.

Alexandria National Cemetery was listed in the National Register of Historic Places beginning in 1995.

The year-round purpose of Wreaths of America is three-fold: First, to remember individual veterans among the millions who rest in honored glory. Second, to openly honor them by providing volunteer opportunities for those interested in leading a sponsorship group or coordinating a ceremony location. Third, to teach family, friends, co-workers, and organizations the importance of remembering and honoring those who have served in defense of the nation.