Each year Detroit Lakes participates in the nationwide tradition called Wreaths across America.  It is a way our community can participate in the honoring our Veterans , joining the national effort where thousands of volunteers and corporate sponsors place over 900,000 donated wreaths at nearly 1100 participating locations.

Detroit Lakes is one of the few communities in Minnesota that carry on this tradition.  Starting in 2015 DL joined in this nation effort under local coordinators Pam and Tom Mortenson. 

Wreaths Across America is best known for its annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery and yearlong efforts to support its mission: “Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve and Teach the next generation about the true cost of freedom” however the event has spread across America with hunderds of communities particpating.

Detroit Lakes with the support of the Women’s Relief Corps, and other community groups last year including the Ogema VFW Women’s Auxiliary, place wreaths at Veteran's Park, followed by placement at the Detroit Lakes Grand Army of the Republic Park on Washington Avenue.

We welcome everyone, regardless of age to come out and show their support for this growing activity within our community.

Local residents can lead the way and see how our community adds to the events at Arlington.  This event will grow every year as a fitting tribute to those that served our Nation if you volunteer.

About Wreaths Across America: Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at more than 1,100 veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states, including Detroit Lakes, MN, and beyond.  For more information, to donate or sign up to volunteer, please visit www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org.  Follow Wreaths Across America on Facebook and on Twitter.

The National Woman's Relief Corps, Auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic, is a patriotic organization whose express purpose is to perpetuate the memory of the Grand Army of the Republic, as we are their auxiliary organized at their request on July 25 and 26, 1883 in Denver, Colorado, and incorporated by Public Act of the 87th Congress on September 7, 1962.  For more information visit http://suvcw.org/WRC/index.htm   Mary Lewis was involved with the WRC and was responsible for the Memorial Day parade in DL as well as supporting veterans.  Pam Mortenson carries on her efforts.