Senator Collins Delivers Remarks at Wreaths Across America Convoy Stop in Ellsworth

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Ellsworth, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the Wreaths Across America convoy stop in Ellsworth at the Maine Coast Mall.  Approximately 750 veterans, Gold Star families, local community members, families, and business owners were estimated to attend the event.

“Since the Wreaths Across America tradition began in 1992, more than six million wreaths have been placed at national cemeteries and veterans memorials in every state and overseas, wherever American heroes lie at rest.  This remarkable effort is made possible by trucking companies across the nation who donate their services and by the generosity of thousands of volunteers and supporters,” said Senator Collins.  “Thanks to the spirit of this Maine-made tradition, we remember and honor America’s veterans this holiday season, while also teaching the generations to come of the sacrifices that have been made to secure a future of peace and liberty.”

The convoy of volunteers and thousands of Maine-made balsam wreaths began on Saturday in Lubec and will make several stops in Maine before departing the state tonight. They are scheduled to arrive at Arlington National Cemetery on December 15.  In addition to Arlington National Cemetery, volunteers will place approximately 1.2 million wreaths at more than 1,200 locations in all 50 states and numerous national veteran cemeteries on foreign soil.  For the first time this year, wreaths will be laid at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, France.

A mobile Vets Center unit, a free program supporting veterans as they readjust to life after deployment, was available to veterans during today’s event.