Phillip Potts
Holidays are for celebration and remembrance. For a decade, Wreaths Across America has honored deceased members of the armed services connected to local families.
Wreaths go as far back as flowered headbands in ancient Egyptian history. Leaves and flowers were stitched onto strips of linen, often for funerary purposes.
Later, the Greeks, particularly military heroes and athletic victors, wore olive leaf head wreaths. Through the centuries, wreaths were used in a variety of decoration and praise. Today, wreaths continue to recognize military virtue, honoring soldiers who served, those who have fallen, and those who symbolize the value of freedom. Wreaths Across America wreaths are no longer headbands, but large, circular standing florals, about 2 feet across, placed at gravesides.
On the second Thursday of October, Highlands Rotary Bingo will sponsor Wreaths Across America. The proceeds of Bingo Night will honor our fallen.
Phillip Potts, representative of the local WAA, welcomes a massive number of bingo lovers at 6:30 P.M. Thursday, October 8, at the Highlands Community Building. Players and supporters, please purchase a delicious dinner, buy at least 15 Bingo cards, and let the winning begin.
The more people who attend, the more wreaths can be purchased to honor local veterans.
Bingo winners will be awarded their winnings about 8:30 P.M. You’ll get no wreaths, just a pile of money (maybe) and a big, warmed heart.
Wreaths will be distributed at cemeteries on December 19 at noon, recognizing military members. Shuttles will provide transportation from the Highlands Community Building for those who wish to lay a wreath on the grave of a loved one.
Phillip says, “We’d never be able to present this event without the dedicated American Legion Post 370, Highlands. In addition, they assist in placing flags, ceremony wreaths, and so much more.” And super thanks to Highlands Rotary. Kudos to all.
The event recognizes members of these military services: Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, U.S. Merchant Marine, and Space Force. The event also honors POWs and MIAs.
Go online to Wreaths Across America, Highlands, North Carolina, for more information. Contact ppotts63@frontier.com for information.
He adds, “Any money remaining, we’ll donate to maintain veteran bricks at the cemetery, Veterans Day, Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and work with the American Legion for flags.”
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