Arlington National Cemetery is preparing for annual wreaths across America

One of the DC area’s most sacred holiday traditions is coming up this weekend, and they need volunteers to help make it happen. Hundreds of thousands of wreaths are laid at Arlington National Cemetery for the annual Wreaths Across America.

“It’s just wonderful to have the public come in and pay honor and respect to those who served,” said Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of the Office of Army Cemeteries.

Gates open at 8 a.m. Saturday and there are four ways to enter: the main entrance on Memorial Avenue, the Ord and Weitzel pedestrian gate across from the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, or a gate on Columbia Pike. Department of Defense pass holders may enter through Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.

Volunteers must also bring their ID. The usual security and control procedures apply at the cemetery. Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to volunteer. There are plenty of walks to be had in the 600-acre cemetery. But organizers say it’s worth it.

“It is a heartwarming moment for everyone who comes here to see the honor, respect and recognition of the sacrifice and service of our military members,” Durham-Aguilera said.

Road closures

Due to road closures due to Wreaths Across America, motorists are advised to take alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion and delays on the roads.

Arlington County Police said the following streets will be closed to traffic from 6 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m.:

• Marshall Drive between N. Meade Street and Route 110 will be closed to authorized traffic only.
• N. Meade Street will be closed from 14th Street N. to Marshall Drive, except for residents.
• Columbia Pike will be closed from S. Joyce Street to Rotary Road to authorized traffic only.
• Northbound S. Eads Street, between 15th Street S. and 18th Street S., will be closed from 6:00 a.m. to 6:45 a.m

Watch for additional road closures at locations along Interstate 395, the George Washington Parkway, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and the Pentagon Reserve.

Arlington police said these closures are being conducted by other law enforcement agencies: US Park Police, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Police and the Pentagon Force Protection Agency.

According to Arlington police, drivers are not allowed to park their vehicles on the shoulders of Route 110 and Washington Boulevard or they will be towed.

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