Photo By Sgt. Maj. Alexander Burnett | Marine Maj. Gen. John A. Toolan, the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force commanding...... read more read more
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - On a small patch of desert land, a formation of Soldiers has gathered. They come to pay their respects in a traditional manner to soldiers who have paid the ultimate price for their nation. This ceremony, which began over a decade ago in the U.S., has found its way to Afghanistan.
Soldiers, Marines and coalition forces gathered in front of the 375th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion headquarters on Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan for a Wreaths Across America Ceremony, Dec. 10.
Wreaths Across America was founded over 15 years ago when the Worcester Wreath Company began donating wreaths to be laid on the headstones of service members at Arlington National Cemetery.
The 375 CSSB command team wanted to bring this tradition to Afghanistan as a way to remember the soldiers who gave their lives in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Two soldiers stepped forward to make this event a reality, said Lt. Col. Edwin Lugo Jr., the 375th CSSB commander.
“Myself and Specialist Bryan Penn were in charge of coordinating everything for this ceremony,” said Spc. Kelsey Morrison, an ammunition supply specialist with the 811th Ordinance Company, 375th CSSB. “We were in charge of getting the wreaths, sending the invitations to the Marine command and ensuring this ceremony was a memorable event for all who came.”
The battalion’s subordinate company’s fell into a formation before a small stage which held displays for five fallen Soldiers, a display for all fallen service members and a display for service members who became prisoners of war or were missing in action. The remembered Soldiers were: Spc. Joshua Campell, Spc. Shawn Muhr, Cpl. Colby Richmond, Pfc. Alberto Abod and Cpl. Devin Daniels. After a brief explanation of the ceremonies significance, Marine Maj. Gen. John A. Toolan, the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, the 375th CSSB command team and several Soldiers laid wreaths on each of the displays.
“This ceremony is incredibly important because it is up to each of us to remember our fallen brothers and sisters,” said Toolan. “In the 35 years I have served, the men and women from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines that have paid the ultimate price are always in my mind. It was a great honor to be a part of this.”
Each Soldiers achievements and military honors were shared as the wreaths were laid in place. After the ceremony, the displays remained standing so members of the audience could pay their respects to their fallen comrades.
“This ceremony was a very emotional experience for all those in attendance,” said Lugo. “I hope it is a tradition that will be continue to be observed by all the fighting forces in Afghanistan.”
| Date Taken: | 12.10.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 12.11.2011 04:42 |
| Story ID: | 81190 |
| Location: | CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF |
| Web Views: | 221 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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