Honor Wreaths For Veterans is a 501-3C charity that fund raises for Wreath Across American a national group that lay wreaths in December at approximately 2000 cemeteries. By working with them the same wreath we lay in Carterville is the same that is laid in Arlington National Cemetery.

In 2015, the Carterville Area Rotary decided to raise funds for the Mounds City National Cemetery, which has over 9000 veteran graves. The most they had was 200 wreaths sponsored in a year. That year we took down 250 wreaths as a group and with our exposure on TV and Facebook they had their biggest year at 550 wreaths.

In 2016, we decided to form a 501-C3 charity and not make it a Rotary project. By doing this we have been able to get many other organizations involve: other Rotary Clubs, American Legion, AmVets, Elks, Woman’s Life Clubs, Woman’s Clubs, and many businesses.

In 2018, we had our biggest year  with 2776 wreaths laid in 12 cemeteries. If all goes well we will lay over 6000 in 14 cemeteries this December 14th. We hope to cover all veterans in the Carterville Cemeteries.

If you have someone that is not buried in Carterville and you would like a wreath for them. Send $15 to 1212 N. Garfield Marion, IL 62959. You will be able to pick it up at Carterville Cemetery December 14th at 11am. We invite all to the ceremony and to help lay wreaths.

All veterans deserve to have a wreath; not just the ones buried in national cemeteries, but also those buried in little country cemeteries.

They say we die twice, once when your heart stops beating and second when no one says your name. That is why we thank the veteran and say their name. 

If your business would like to support veterans we would appreciate your support. For information contact Jim Koonce, 618-201-6636, or at jim@honorwreathsforveterans.org