This Saturday, Dec. 16, volunteers will place holiday wreaths to honor and remember America’s veterans at more than 100 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national cemeteries as part of the annual Wreaths Across America event.

Now in its 12th year at VA national cemeteries and state veterans cemeteries, the Wreaths Across America campaign was created by the Worcester Wreath Co. when it began donating wreaths to VA’s national cemeteries and state veterans cemeteries in 2006.

The ceremonies also will take place across several cemeteries in Lake County, Calif., on that day.

“This annual tribute to our nation’s veterans is more than just a patriotic activity,” said VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin. “Wreaths Across America is an opportunity for VA to partner with key organizations as we honor those laid to rest in VA’s cemeteries.”

Each year, VA’s 135 VA national cemeteries receive the following: at least seven wreaths, to include one for each of the five branches of the military, one for the Merchant Marines and one for Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action.

Additionally, community and veterans service organizations as well as local businesses have raised money for additional holiday, or “remembrance wreaths” for gravesites.

The Wreaths Across America ceremonies align with VA’s National Cemetery Administration’s mission to increase public awareness by sharing the stories of America’s veterans through research, education and community commemoration.

All are encouraged to visit a VA national cemetery Dec. 16 to help place wreaths and honor the nation’s veterans this holiday season.

For a listing of Wreaths Across America ceremonies at VA’s national cemeteries, visit https://www.cem.va.gov/ceremony/2017_Wreaths_Across_America.asp.