Wreaths Across America stops in Ellsworth as the escort to Arlington begins

ELLSWORTH, Maine (WABI) – Wreaths Across America has begun its escort to Arlington where they will lay thousands of wreaths at the national cemetery.

After setting off from Columbia Falls on Saturday, they stopped in Ellsworth to honor those who served in the line of duty and the families who lost loved ones in the line of duty.

“It started out as just a family program, but I keep saying, ‘I wish every family could connect with these wonderful people, the Gold Star Mothers.’ I probably have forty Gold Star Mother friends who buried their children to give us the freedom we have. And to walk this path with them; Having my grandchildren, my children knowing these people, it really changes you. This is so much more than laying wreaths. There is a real awareness and communities coming together,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America.

“That was a great experience. I could see the youth singing us a beautiful song and I saw us infecting our veterans. I mean, that’s what community is all about. It just gives me a rebirth,” said USMC Vietnam veteran Charlie Paul.

“Since learning about Wreaths Across America, my goal has been to get to where I am now. This is important for the veterans who give everything for us. It’s a small part that we can give back to them and keep their spirit alive. They’re doing the best they can, this is a small part we can do to help,” said Walmart truck driver Jamie Marr, who led the Escort to Arlington.

“In every community we pass through, there are people standing on the side of the road welcoming us. There are almost 200 people in this convoy. They come from all over the country. And I want to give a shout out, they wash out in Columbia Falls. They still had about half the trucks to load, about over 800 trucks, 99 percent volunteer companies and drivers,” Worcester added.

“That was on my wish list. Yes, that was it, I always thought I would like to do that. I never thought I would get the opportunity and my wife and daughter made it happen. So I’m grateful for them, but I’m also grateful for the opportunity to do something I believe in,” Paul said.

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