Wreaths Across America remembers fallen heroes Published Dec. 10, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Amber Carter 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Wreaths Across America, an annual wreath laying ceremony, will take place at 8 a.m. Dec. 12 at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. "Wreaths Across America is annual effort to spread a message about the importance of remembering our fallen heroes, honoring those who serve and teaching our children about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families to preserve our freedoms," said Staff Sgt. Crystal Hayley, 60th Air Mobility Wing command post training manager and volunteer. Many participating in the event will be there for personal reasons. Some will volunteer to pay their respects to the fallen warriors and their families, while others have suffered losses themselves. "I have a friend who passed away (while serving)," said Tech. Sgt. Jameson Bliss, 60th Civil Engineer Squadron dorm leader NCO in-charge. "They are not (buried) here in California, but it's a time for me to remember them ... and to say I miss them and honor their oath to my country." The nationwide event is expected to draw a large number of volunteers. "Wreaths Across America is a tradition of volunteers paying tribute by placing wreaths on the headstones of our Nation's fallen heroes. This event will occur in all 50 states, and beyond, this Saturday," Hayley said. "I am expecting, from past turn outs, approximately 500 volunteers in total. I am asking the military members that are volunteers to be in ABU's to show our respect. This will also help us find each other on the day of the event." Volunteers are needed to help with the unloading and unboxing of approximately 17,000 wreaths. The ceremony will commence at 9 a.m. following the laying of the wreaths. For more information about the event visit http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org