Wreaths laid across veteran's graves in Chelmsford

CHELMSFORD, Mass. — Veterans and their families gathered in Chelmsford on Saturday to remember and honor all who have served - all because of one woman's goal to localize a national organization.

Karen Haywood brought the "Wreaths Across America" to Massachusetts where Christmas wreaths are used to honor local veterans.

"We are here to say thank you, to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach our children the value of their freedoms," said Haywood. "I decided Chelmsford Vets needed to be honored as much as the rest of the nation did."

She raised enough money to sponsor the 1,618 wreaths that were laid out today, adding the town of Chelmsford to the national Tour For Wreaths Across America.

Each branch of the military took part in the event at Chelmsford's Veterans Memorial Park, a private place started, run, and maintained by vets.

"This is our community, it's the Chelmsford community and they need to be remembered and they need to be honored," said Mike Kendrick, president of the Chelmsford Veteran's Park.

Retired local army Lt. Col. Sam Colton is thankful to Karen for her efforts and says we should all be thankful for the sacrifice vets have made.

"These wreaths commemorate the folks that did not come home to enjoy the liberty and freedom they sacrificed their lives for," said Lt. Col. Colton. "We were excited when Karen contacted us - laying these wreaths is very meaningful, we must never forget."

This year was such a success that Haywood hopes to sponsor even more wreaths next year.

Cox Media Group