(The Hoot News photo provided)

A semi carrying more than 400 wreaths to decorate the graves of deceased veterans arrived in Columbia City around mid-day on Wednesday. The wreaths are being stored in preparation for a wreath-laying ceremony this Saturday.

Wreaths Across America – Greenhill Cemetery is a first-time endeavor in Whitley County, spearheaded by local veteran Gary Bird. Bird raised support in the community to purchase more than 400 evergreen wreaths to remember fallen veterans this holiday season. A great success, Bird exceeded his goal and hopes to expand the project in 2024 to other cemeteries in the county.

The 400 wreaths were shipped from Maine where all of the nationwide program’s wreaths originate.

This Saturday, December 16, 2023, scores of volunteers will gather in Greenhill Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. The event will begin with a program. Volunteers will begin placing wreaths at 1 p.m. The afternoon’s agenda is posted below.