(Ripley County, IN) – Wreaths Across America Day took place Saturday, December 13 at 4,600 participating locations across the country.
Our nation’s heroes were remembered as over two million volunteers helped place more than 2.7 million veterans’ wreaths on headstones of our fallen across the country.
Ripley County’s Commitment to Honor
Here in Ripley County, Wreaths Across Ripley County proudly honored 4,410 veterans with wreaths placed at 117 cemeteries. This year, Wreaths Across Ripley County extended its support to Dearborn County (Greendale and Farmer’s Retreat) and Franklin County (St. John’s UCC–Huntersville, Holy Family, St. Anne’s, St. Mary of the Rock, and Marlin Cemetery), demonstrating the region’s commitment to remembering those who served.
Why We Use Live Balsam Wreaths
Each wreath placed is a living tribute. Made from balsam fir—a species native to the Northeastern United States—these fresh evergreens symbolize honor and remembrance. For centuries, evergreens have represented eternal life and renewal. By using live wreaths, Wreaths Across Ripley County ensures that this tradition remains vibrant and meaningful.
Every balsam veteran’s wreath is a gift of respect and appreciation, sponsored by individuals or organizations and placed by volunteers as a small gesture of gratitude for the freedoms Americans enjoy. When each wreath is laid, the veteran’s name is spoken aloud, ensuring their memory lives on. This act transforms the wreath into more than a decoration—it becomes a living memorial renewed annually, honoring veterans, active-duty military, and their families.
Students Learn the Deeper Meaning of the Wreath
Over the course of the week, 8th grade students from Batesville Middle School, East Central Middle School, Jac-Cen-Del Junior High School, Milan Middle School, South Ripley Junior High School, St. Louis Catholic School, and St. Nicholas Catholic School learned that the wreath represents the characteristics of U.S. veterans: Belief in a greater good; Love for others; Strength, work ethic, and character; Honesty and integrity; Humility, selflessness, and modesty, Ambitions and aspirations; Optimism for America; Concern for the future; Pride in their duties; and Hopes and dreams that did not always come true but left them with no regrets. These are not just qualities of our veterans—they are attributes we can emulate and put into practice in our own lives to strengthen our communities and honor their legacy.
Several students also had the privilege of placing wreaths at local cemeteries, creating a personal connection to the mission. One student shared a particularly meaningful moment when she placed a wreath on her grandfather’s grave—a Vietnam veteran—underscoring the deep family and community ties that this tradition represents.
Cemeteries are more than resting places; they are windows into our past community. Understanding who our ancestors were allows us to appreciate the trajectory of our community and recognize the sacrifices that shaped the freedoms we enjoy today. This act of remembrance is not only about honoring the past—it’s about inspiring the future.
Acknowledgment: The TEACH portion of this initiative was made possible thanks to Oldenburg Academy history teacher Charlene Weberding and her students, as well as the dedicated members of the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary: Carol Holzer, Nancy Durham, Jane Westmeyer, Susan Underwood, Cheryl Welch, and Marsha Bultman. Their commitment to educating and engaging students ensured the success of this meaningful experience.
The Symbolism Behind Every Wreath
To truly understand the tribute, we also need to look at the elements that make up the wreath itself, as every part, from the bow to the circle shape, holds a special meaning. The evergreens represent longevity, endurance, and resilience, staying vibrant throughout the winter. The forest scent of the evergreen branches represents growth and the promise of spring, which brings new
life. The wreath’s circular form, without beginning or end, stands as a powerful reminder of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of America. Finally, the red bow honors the lives given to protect our freedoms.
Every balsam veteran’s wreath is a gift of respect and appreciation, sponsored by individuals or organizations and placed by volunteers as a small gesture of gratitude for the freedoms Americans enjoy. When each wreath is laid, the veteran’s name is spoken aloud, ensuring their memory lives on. This act transforms the wreath into more than a decoration—it becomes a living memorial renewed annually, honoring veterans, active-duty military, and their families.
Community Support
The Ripley County Community Foundation expresses its gratitude to the community for its unwavering support of Wreaths Across Ripley County. Volunteers, donors, truck drivers, area officials, and the media all played a vital role in the success of this endeavor. We extend a special appreciation to the employees of Baxter for dedicating their time to organize the wreaths at the Ripley County Fairgrounds, and we also thank the Fairgrounds staff for generously allowing us to store the wreaths on-site.
“Wreaths Across Ripley County is more than just a tradition; it’s a profound commitment to keep the names and memories of our local heroes alive,” stated Amy Streator, Executive Director of
the Ripley County Community Foundation. “Every veteran we honor laid the foundation for our future. When you combine the simple, enduring circle of the wreath with the strength represented
by each evergreen piece, you are holding a symbol of service and resilience—a direct connection to the Wreaths Across America 2025 theme of “Keep Moving Forward.”
Special Recognition: We extend heartfelt appreciation to the Ripley County Historical Society—especially Owen Menchhofer, Barb Eades, Dannie Welch, Cheryl Welch, Kay Koppel, and Duane Drockelman—for their countless hours of research to identify local veterans, their branch of service, years served, and final resting place. Their dedication ensured that every wreath honored a name, a story, and a legacy, making this tribute profoundly meaningful.
Expanded Impact: Sgt. Chad Keith Legacy Fund Grant
This year, Wreaths Across Ripley County expanded its impact by awarding the first grant from the Sgt. Chad Keith Legacy Fund. This fund provides support for educational experiential field trips offered through the middle schools located in the City of Batesville, IN, with preference given to the 8th grade trip to Washington, D.C. When in D.C., students visit Arlington National Cemetery and pay their respects at the grave of Sgt. Chad Keith—a 2000 graduate of Batesville High School who served in the United States Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 325th Infantry Regiment. On July 7, 2003, while on mounted patrol in Baghdad, Sgt. Keith was killed when a roadside bomb exploded.
This grant ensures that future generations will continue to learn about Sgt. Keith’s courage and commitment, reinforcing the values of service, sacrifice, and patriotism that Wreaths Across Ripley County strives to teach.
How You Can Help
From now until December 31, 2025 you can sponsor two wreaths for the price of one. Honor fallen veterans, recognize active service members, and instill the value of freedom in future generations and donate to Wreaths Across Ripley County.
Donations can be made online at www.rccfonline.org, by calling (812) 933-1098, or by visiting the Ripley County Community Foundation office located at 13 E. George Street, Ste. B,
Batesville, IN 47006.
Next year’s National Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2026.
(Ripley County Community Foundation press release)
