Harrington, ME -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/03/2015 -- Wreaths Across America, a program that originated in 1992, continues to honor those who have died while serving the country. The program now marks the graves of approximately 700,000 veterans in 900 cemeteries throughout the country with christmas wreaths. Many are familiar with this program, as it provides 230,000 wreaths for Arlington National Cemetery, yet it also remembers numerous other veterans and requires funding for each wreath.

"Veterans deserve respect, especially those who gave their lives for this country, and individuals can show their respect by purchasing a wreath for this purpose. Christmas Wreaths help to make the cemetery festive and greet those who come to visit their loved one during the holidays. Each wreath shows that others remember and appreciate the men and women who sacrificed a great deal to protect the citizens of America," Mike Worcester, spokesperson for WorcesterWreath.com, states.

When the program first started, Morrill Worcester chose to place wreaths on the graves of those who received fewer visitors each passing year. This was in an older section of Arlington National Cemetery and fewer family members remained to visit the graves. Individuals and organizations learned of his plans and stepped up to help with transporting the wreaths from Maine to Virginia, decorating each wreath with a red hand-tied bow and placing them on the graves.

"It wasn't until 2005 that this program gained national attention. People began to request a wreath for their loved one's grave, yet the company couldn't keep up with these requests, as they numbered in the thousands. In addition, cemeteries wanted to take part and people wanted to donate to the program. To expand the program, Worcester Wreath began sending seven wreaths to each state, one for every service branch and one for those held as prisoners of war or missing in action," Worcester continues.

In 2007, the program became known as Wreaths Across America and today is able to grace hundreds of thousands of graves, thanks to the generous donations of individuals across America. This non-profit 501-c3 organization accepts donations to place these wreaths every year. The money is used to expand the program and to support those taking part.

"Individuals need to remember those who gave of themselves in defense of this country. As Morrill Worcester stated, this is only a small gesture and he wished he could do more. With the expansion of this program, we'll be able to honor these men and women for years to come," Worcester declares.

About Worcester Wreath
Worcester Wreath remains committed to protecting the environment and its many resources. When creating balsam products for sale, the company only makes use of the tips of the branches and these tips regenerate every three years. All products are handmade with pride by this family owned and operated company and they are now the premier wholesaler of holiday balsam products.