Taftville Legion post to participate in ‘Wreaths Across America’ program

Norwich - The Taftville American Legion post will hold a "Wreaths Across America" ceremony Saturday at noon at Sacred Heart Cemetery on Harland Road-Route 169.

The program is in conjunction with nationwide simultaneous wreath-laying ceremonies at noon Saturday to place wreathes at prominent locations in veterans' and private cemeteries and at war memorials.

During the ceremony, veterans and active duty military personnel will place seven ceremonial wreaths, one for each of the military services, the Merchant Marine and a POW/MIA wreath. Family members who have sponsored a wreath will be escorted by members of the American Legion and other Taftville civic groups to the graves of their deceased loved ones to place wreaths.

Prior to the ceremony, American Legion members and members of other Taftville civic groups will place wreaths on the graves of veterans who do not have a family sponsor. More than 150 graves will be decorated this year.

"This will provide a strong visual message as people crest Harland Road," coordinator Dennis Baptiste said.