The Heart of Illinois Blue Star Mothers of America chapter will host the 2nd annual Wreaths Across America ceremony Saturday December 12, 11:00 a.m., Springdale Cemetery in Peoria. Mayor Jim Ardis will be our keynote speaker and a Color Guard will be present. Seven ceremonial wreaths will be laid—one for each branch of our Armed Forces, Merchant Marines, and POW-MIA. Immediately following the ceremony, participants will lay wreaths on the veteran’s graves.

Transported from Bangor, Maine the wreaths are 20” fresh pine with a red bow and may be purchased for $15 each. Deadline is Nov. 23.
The Heart of Illinois Blue Star Mothers is a local chapter of military moms who meet to support local families who have lost a loved one in the war.

Springdale Cemetery is one of 400 locations nationwide participating in this event. Last year 105,724 wreaths were laid nationwide on veterans graves. The Peoria effort laid 100 wreaths. Wreaths Across America, www.wreathsacrossamerica.org began 18 years ago at Arlington Cemetery.

To order wreaths visit www.hoibluestarmothers.com, e mail hoibluestar@yahoo.com or call 309-693-9533.