5 THINGS TO KNOW: Wreaths across America honors veterans, military service
Dec. 13—Information is provided regarding local groups which are working together for the Wreaths Across America Ceremony in McAlester.
1 When and where is the Wreaths Across Ceremony in McAlester?
It's set for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec.16, at Oak Hill Cemetery. It will be held in the pavilion for the Unknown Soldier, just north of U.S. Highway 270 and the entrance to the Tandy Town Shopping Center.
2 Has the city of McAlester done anything special for the event?
Mayor John Browne proclaimed Wreaths Across America Day in McAlester, stating in the proclamation "Our nation stands as a shining beacon of liberty and freedom in the world. We thank those who gave their lives to keep us free. We shall not forget you."
3 Who is the keynote speaker?
McAlester Army Ammunition Plant commander Gabriel Pryor. Included in the presentation of colors are the Choctaw Nation Color Guard, the Disabled American Veterans Honor Guard, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association and the McAlester Drumline.
4 Who else is participating?
Additional participants include U. S. Navy Admiral (Retired) Dr. John Cotton, who will lead the Pledge of Allegiance; Ava Rose Johnson, who will sing the National Anthem; Pastor Donald Brown of American Legion Post 250, who will give the invocation, and Masonic District Deputy Dennis Jay Wilson, who will deliver the welcome, along with Mayor Browne.
The 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the war for the nation's independence, will be noted by Christina Thurber, regent of the Kilihoti Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
5 Who will conduct the wreath presentation?
Dr. Cotton and Col. Pryor are to conduct the wreath presentation to the Unknown Soldier, with Wilson also participating in the wreath presentation.
Wreaths Across America is sponsored by The Daughters of the American Revolution and Masonic District #27.
—James Beaty
