Wreaths Across America: Galion Cadets and Students Pay Tribute To Veterans

Two Galion Pioneer Career and Technology Center students, Damien Johnson and Jon Christensen, will be recognized at the February Board of Education meeting for their meaningful contributions to the Wreaths Across America ceremony.

Crafting a Lasting Tribute

Damien and Jon worked alongside their former Galion High School teacher, Mr. Weirich, to design and construct custom wreath stands used during the ceremony. Their craftsmanship provided a dignified display for the ceremonial wreaths, reinforcing the solemn and respectful nature of the event. The Wreaths Across America Ceremony, a 30-year national tradition, will now become an annual event for Galion’s Civil Air Patrol (CAP) program.

Honoring Veterans Through Ceremony

During the ceremony at Galion High School, CAP cadets played a central role in honoring fallen service members. Flags representing the POW/MIA (Prisoners of War/Missing in Action), United States Air Force, United States Army, United States Navy, United States Marines, United States Merchant Marines, and the United States Space Force lined the stage.

Cadets volunteered to deliver brief speeches detailing the history and significance of each flag. Meanwhile, another cadet placed a wreath on the ceremonial stand before rendering a salute. The ceremony concluded with a poignant moment of silence, as cadets faced the assembly of flags and wreaths in a unified tribute.

Recognizing Service and Integrity

“This was an incredible teaching moment for all involved,” said SMSgt. Brian Kentosh. “The actions of Damien and Jon exemplify the core values of integrity, respect, and service before self. Through their volunteer efforts and the participation of our cadets, they’ve demonstrated how even small contributions can profoundly impact honoring those who have given so much for our freedoms.”

The Mission of Wreaths Across America

The Wreaths Across America organization is a non-profit dedicated to honoring veterans by placing wreaths on their graves in military cemeteries across the country. Their mission—“Remembering the fallen, Honoring those who serve, and Teaching our children the value of freedom”—continues to inspire communities nationwide.

The annual wreath-laying tradition, observed on Wreaths Across America Day each December, is part of a larger initiative. A convoy from Harrington, Maine, to Arlington National Cemetery—often referred to as “the world’s largest veterans’ parade”—stops at schools, monuments, veterans’ homes, and communities along the route to share the mission’s importance.

A Heartfelt Thanks

The contributions of Damien Johnson and Jon Christensen, along with the dedication of Galion’s Civil Air Patrol cadets, played a key role in the ceremony’s success. Their efforts helped ensure that fallen service members are honored and remembered.

Source, Photo: Galion City Schools


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