"Wreaths Across America" honored veterans in Westfield

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A special wreath-laying ceremony took place in Westfield on Tuesday morning, to honor and remember those who risked their lives fighting for our freedom.

At 10:00 A.M., the state police escorted a convoy from Maine into the city. The convoy was made up of nine tractor trailer trucks carrying wreaths, which will be placed at memorials and on the graves of our fallen heroes.

Five of those wreaths were placed at the Veteran’s Memorial inside Stanley Park.

It is all part of an annual event put on by the non-profit organization " Wreaths Across America.” Ever year, this convoy travels from Maine all the way down to Virginia, stopping along the way in small towns across the Northeast.

Hundreds from the Westfield community came out to show their respect, and many said they were touched that their city was selected to be a part of such a heartfelt ceremony during the holidays.

“Well it just shows respect, and remembering what happened in the past,” said Benjamin Surprise, a veteran from Westfield.

“With the holidays, it's time for us to pause and reflect and appreciate what these men and women have done for us in the past, present, and obviously what they're going to do for us in the future,” said Stanley Park Managing Director Robert McKean, who is himself also a veteran.

Also in attendance at the ceremony were Gold Star families, the First Lady of Maine, veterans, and students from the Westfield Public Schools.

If you would like more information on Wreaths Across America, you can visit their website at wreathsacrossamerica.org