Laying wreaths at American Legion Post #5, Tampa, FL

by Tawnie Elliott
(Lake Mary, FL)

A portion of the 800 or so wreaths placed on veterans' gravesites at American Legion Post #5, Tampa

It was an honor to participate in today's wreath laying at Post #5. It is one of only two American Legion Posts to have a veterans cemetery attached to it. It was a rather warm day, even for FL, but it did not hinder the spirits of those in attendance. The cemetery took on such a beautiful appearance after the wreaths were laid. The wreaths were gorgeous with their bright red bows. Some attendees had family members buried in this cemetery, making today's events particularly meaningful.

Special guest speaker John Estrada, 15th Sgt Maj of the Marine Corps Retired, spoke from his heart about what the men and women buried in our National and Veteran Cemeteries around the world mean to us with regard to the Freedoms we all share today.

I know everyone present at the ceremony today felt the presence of all those buried in the Post's cemetery, and knew we were doing a good deed. Many, if not all, will be looking forward to next year's Wreaths Across America project.