‘It makes your heart feel good’: Over 2,000 wreaths laid at Wyuka Cemetery for veterans

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – On Saturday, over 2,000 wreaths were placed on the graves of fallen soldiers at Wyuka Cemetery.

The event put on by Wreaths Across America honors U.S. military members by remembering the sacrifices veterans have made in wars since the American Revolution.

Before the wreaths were placed, a ceremony was held where Blue Star Mothers presented wreaths to military personnel in honor of their children who are currently serving.

Also included in the ceremony was a 21-gun salute, taps, and the singing of ‘America the Beautiful’ performed by Jennifer Williams.

“It’s easy for all of us in the hustle bustle of our daily lives to forget that there are people out there serving our country and trying to keep us safe,” Williams said. “I think it’s just really important to remember how lucky we are as a nation and that each of these service members plays a vital role.”

One Blue Star Mother, Stephanie Campbell, said her son is currently serving in the Air Force, and her father-in-law is buried in Wyuka.

“A lot of people don’t realize that this is even here, that this goes on,” she said. “And the more exposure you get, the more people will know and realize and maybe research and find out what it means to be an American.”

As the wreaths were laid, family members, volunteers and veterans were asked to speak the names of the fallen soldiers aloud.

Gerry Finnegan, an organizer of the event, said by acknowledging each solider out loud, their loved ones hope the names and memories won’t be forgotten.

“A person dies twice,” he said. “They die first when their heart quits beating, but the second time they die is when their name is last spoken aloud.”

Campbell said this time of year, everyone needs to have support, and it meant a lot to her that so many people turned out.

“I was very, very excited when we pulled in today,” she said. “I was so excited like look at all the cars, look at all the people here. It makes your heart feel good.”