A circle of remembrance
By Tracy Thomas, Public Affairs Outreach Specialist
Winter descended upon the ground on the chilly morning of Dec. 13 with the first light of day casting gentle shadows across the meticulously manicured rows of marble headstones.
The air – brisk and fresh – was filled with the invigorating scent of pine from the thousands of beautiful wreaths waiting to be placed at each headstone. The fog, lingering like a delicate veil, slowly lifted under the sun's warming rays, revealing the tranquil beauty of the Chattanooga National Cemetery as crowds waited for the Wreaths Across America ceremony to begin.
Wreaths Across America was formed in 2007, they had one simple mission and motto: Remember, Honor, Teach. The Wreaths Across America ceremonies include the placing of wreaths, sharing of personal stories, and moments of silence to honor the memory of each individual who served. With the support of volunteers and donations around the country, their goal each year at Christmas is to cover every Veterans grave in the National VA Cemeteries.
These hallowed grounds serve as a stark reminder of profound sacrifice, a place where each headstone stands not just as a marker, but as a testament to a life lived, each etched name telling a unique story. Families, friends, and community members walked the hushed aisles, feeling the weight of collective honor mingled with unspoken grief.
As hundreds of volunteers gathered, one small child stood quietly on top of the hill at the edge of the cemetery, his breath visibly frosted in the cool morning air. He placed a wreath with his tiny, gloved hands as a gesture and symbol of love, remembrance, and gratitude. Adorned with a bright red bow, the wreath was a stark contrast to the serene whites and grays of the cemetery, meant to honor the fallen.
Employees from VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, including Interim Deputy Executive Director Dr. Bridget Brozyna and Chattanooga VA Clinic Manager Deidra Campbell, gathered for a solemn day of remembrance at both the Chattanooga National Cemetery and the Nashville National Cemetery.
“This was my first Wreaths Across America event in Chattanooga. It was great to see the turnout from the community to honor our heroes during the holidays,” Campbell shared as she kneeled to place a wreath.
This meaningful event allowed community members and TVHS staff to pay their respects to the brave Veterans who are laid to rest in these sacred grounds. Attendees reflected on the sacrifices made by these service members and felt a deep sense of gratitude for their dedication to the country.
This observance reinforces VA's commitment to acknowledging and memorializing the contributions of our nation's heroes.