Collin Harris understands the importance of recognizing veterans.

That’s why on Saturday he and other members of Boy Scout Troop 144 will participate in Wreaths Across America at Cedarwood and Crestview cemeteries.

It is an event which will be held with assistance of the Halifax Resolves Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution.

On Thursday a Harris Teeter truck delivered the 99 wreaths to Wrenn Funeral Home where they will be stored until Saturday’s ceremonies at 11 a.m.

The wreaths were purchased from donations raised by the scouts, who will assist those coming to the cemeteries with placing them, said Troop 144 scoutmaster and local Wreaths Across America coordinator Daniel Harris, Collin’s father.

“We’re trying to honor veterans and raise awareness of veterans,” said Collin, who helped unload the truck which brought the wreaths.

Collin, who is an Eagle Scout, said he likes the idea. “I love helping out in the community. It’s a good experience from them (younger scouts). It helps them know more about veterans.”

Their service, he said, means much to him. “I try to thank one every day.”

• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
•  

Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit organization founded in 2007 to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

It was founded by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992.

The theme of this year’s national day is Be Their Witness, which was inspired from the 2009 drama Taking Chance. The drama was based on the experiences of U.S. Marine Lieutenant Colonel Michael Strobl, who escorted the body of a fallen Marine, PFC Chance Phelps, back to his hometown in Wyoming from the Iraq War.

Wreaths Across America recognizes the daily service and sacrifices made by the military.

Locally, Daniel said, the Wreaths Across America event is dedicated to First Lieutenant Donald Tillar III of Emporia.

Tillar was a Black Hawk helicopter pilot during Desert Storm.

On February 27, 1991, the chopper Tillar was flying was shot down and all crewmembers were killed.

For Daniel, it’s about honoring the sacrifices of those who have served or those who are serving.

For scouts, he said, that service, “Is very important to us because it allows to shoot, climb, camp and fish.”