A Letter From the Chairwoman — Spotlighting Our Annual Wreath Laying Ceremonies

Dear Veteran,

One of the most meaningful ways Texans and people across the nation express their gratitude and respect each year is through Wreath-Laying Ceremonies at National and State Veterans Cemeteries. All four Texas State Veteran Cemeteries participated in Wreath Laying Ceremonies in 2023, which honored the lives and service of Texas Veterans and beautified our already pristine cemeteries.

The Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery participated in this time-honored tradition through the Wreaths for Vets organization in late November. Wreaths for Vets worked with the Friends of the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery, a group of citizens that came together to support important projects for the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.

The Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene, Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, and Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery worked with Wreaths Across America to perform their Wreath Laying Ceremonies.

The ceremonies that we hold at our Texas State Veteran Cemeteries not only show reverence for our Veterans and their families, but also bring these communities closer together. Each year, the Veterans Land Board (VLB) is honored to have volunteers that show up, rain or shine, to help place wreaths on the headstones of our nation’s heroes. Our Veterans programs and our communities are made infinitely stronger when they are bonded closely together. The VLB’s annual Wreath Laying Ceremonies provide a perfect opportunity to strengthen this vital link.

We strive year-round to remember the courage and sacrifices of our Veterans, Wreath Laying Ceremonies provide a unique opportunity for reflection. The solemn act of laying a beautiful wreath at a military member’s headstone and speaking their name aloud is a powerful reminder of these warriors and their families’ sacrifices. By continuing to participate in these special ceremonies, we can help ensure that the next generation of Texans understand the importance of honoring the men and women who sacrificed so much to preserve our freedoms.

I encourage all Texans to find ways to build bonds between Texas Veterans and their communities, whether that is through this year’s Wreath Laying Ceremonies or any of the VLB’s other many incredible programs.

For Texas,

Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D.