Wreaths across America’s Wreath-Laying Day is this Saturday, December 14, 2013 at Arlington National Cemetery. Please note that the graves of the Pentagon and Flight 77 victims get wreaths in this event.
Please plan to get to the cemetery early and use Metro, if possible!
Every year, huge volunteer turnout creates traffic congestion and delays on nearby streets and at the Arlington entrance. These delays are long enough that some volunteers are unable to place a wreath. To increase access for Wreaths across America volunteers, the Cemetery will open more gates for those using Metro, approved parking lots, or walking.
For 2013, there are two primary wreath coverage areas. The main effort should blanket the eastern side of the cemetery (from north to south). The other effort will focus on the west side, abutting Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. (Actual coverage always depends on the final wreath count, available only a couple days before the event.)
Schedule for Saturday December 14, 2013
6:00am: ANC Visitors’ Parking garage opens (ANC Family Pass and Disabled passes only)
7:00am: Metro rail opens (system-wide)
8:00am: ANC Gates open; Note: No private vehicle access to cemetery from 8:00am to 1:00pm, including Family Pass holders
~8:30am: WAA Truck Convoy arrives ANC Main Gate (time approximate)
9:30am: WAA Opening Ceremony at McClellan Gate
10:00am: Wreath laying begins across cemetery
11:00am: Wreath-laying ceremony at President Kennedy’s grave
11:30am: Wreath-laying ceremony at USS Maine Mast
12:00pm: Wreath-laying ceremony at Tomb of Unknown Soldier
For wreath laying in your area or to support Wreaths across America, please check their website.
