A ceremony at Gethsemane Cemetery in Muhlenberg Township on December 13, 2025, drew a large crowd to honor veterans as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. The event involved placing wreaths on the graves of veterans, commemorating their service and preserving their memories.
Among the attendees were Christopher and Leeann DeFusco, who traveled from East Nantmeal Township to pay tribute to Leeann’s parents, Joseph and Marie Geigus. The couple reached the cemetery after a brisk walk, where Leeann placed a green pine wreath adorned with a red bow at her father’s grave. This visit held special significance for her, marking the anniversary of her parents’ passing nearly a year ago.
Wreaths Across America, initiated in 1992 by Morrill Worcester of the Worcester Wreath Company, aims to honor deceased veterans by remembering and teaching about their contributions. This year, the initiative saw participation from over 2 million volunteers who placed more than 3 million handmade balsam fir wreaths at over 5,200 locations across the United States and abroad.
With her father having served in the Air Force and her grandfather, a World War I Army veteran, also interred at Gethsemane, Leeann felt compelled to participate. Christopher expressed their motivation: “It’s to honor their memory, and the respect that goes along with that.” The DeFuscos also contributed financially to cover wreaths for additional veterans, driven by a sense of gratitude.
As the ceremony commenced, the couple noted the impressive turnout of over 100 participants, underscoring the community’s commitment to honoring its veterans. “It makes me feel good that our veterans are being remembered,” Leeann remarked. Christopher highlighted the significance of people taking time from their busy holiday schedules to participate, reflecting the appreciation for those who served.
Jackie Grauert, assistant director at Gethsemane Cemetery, emphasized the importance of the event for the community. This was the second year the cemetery had participated in Wreaths Across America, motivated by a desire to give back to veterans. “They have done so much for us,” Grauert stated. On this day, wreaths were placed on approximately 1,300 of the nearly 5,000 veteran graves at Gethsemane, thanks to an army of volunteers.
“This definitely warms all of our hearts,” Grauert added, expressing her joy at the extensive turnout. The event not only honored individual sacrifices but also fostered a sense of community among those gathered.
The poignant ceremony included musical tributes, such as the playing of taps by Randall Mutter and the Buccaneers Alumni, adding a solemn note to the remembrance of the veterans. The gathering at Gethsemane Cemetery served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the armed forces, reinforcing the community’s commitment to remembrance and respect for its veterans.
