Remington Cemetery welcomed hundreds of attendees for Harold J. Davis American Legion Post 247’s inaugural Wreaths Across America ceremony on Dec. 14, 2024. The program opened with heartfelt tributes to veterans, featuring prayers, a presentation of colors by Boy Scout Troop 1187 and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Girl Scout Troop 633. Wendy Pinsky performed the national anthem for all in attendance.
Mayor William Polk emphasized honoring veterans and educating youth about their sacrifices. Veterans from all military branches laid wreaths at the American flag to honor each branch, POWs and MIAs. State Sen. Bryce Reeves, Commander Jay Pinsky and Sheriff Jeremy Falls placed the POW/MIA wreath.
Retired Navy veteran and Post 247 Wreaths Across America Chair David Sillaman also spoke, thanking veterans and their families. Our nation stands as a shining beacon of liberty and freedom to the world. We thank those who gave their lives to keep us free, and we should not forget you. A person dies twice - once when they’re buried and again the last time someone says their name. As a wreath is placed on a veteran’s grave, the volunteers will say their name.
Sillaman presented individual wreaths to family members of veterans buried in Fauquier County cemeteries. Among them were David Kenny and his children, who traveled from Maryland to honor Revolutionary War Capt. Howser Kenny; Paula Mullins, who remembered Revolutionary War Capt. Francis Hume; Lynn Moffitt, a Gold Star Mother who honored her son, Brian, for his service in Afghanistan; and Earnie Dodson, who honored his brother, Robert, for his service.
After a solemn performance of taps, 125 volunteers placed 750 wreaths on veterans’ graves across 25 cemeteries in southern Fauquier County covering approximately 130 miles.
Sillaman and Commander Pinsky, together with American Legion Post 247, local groups and volunteers, are working to ensure that every veteran buried in Southern Fauquier cemeteries is honored on National Wreaths Across America Day, Dec. 13, 2025. Efforts are underway to raise awareness and secure sponsorships so each veteran receives proper recognition.
Founded in 1992, Wreaths Across America now involves more than 2 million volunteers nationwide, all observing National Wreaths Across America Day in tribute to the nation’s veterans.
