Dear Editor:
In response to your article about, and opportunity to support Boy Scout Troop 476 with Wreaths Across America, thank you.
For those in the greater Chelsea community who may not of heard of this project, Wreaths Across America is a National event (this year on Dec. 16) during which people across the country lay a wreath upon the grave of a veteran. The event began in Arlington National Cemetery and over the years has grown to include most National cemeteries as well as local/private cemeteries.
People may be familiar with stunning photos taken at Arlington National Cemetery with a wreath on every single headstone.
Boy Scout Troop 476 is near to our family’s heart as our son, Captain Joel Gentz USAF was a member. He was killed in action on June 9, 2010 in Afghanistan at age 25 while flying a rescue mission as a Combat Rescue Officer.
What Gold Star families share is the desire to keep the memories of our veterans alive. We ask people to help us with this by “saying their name”. Very simple. Tell stories, talk about memories, etc. Wreaths Across America specifically asks volunteers to “say their name”.
With a wreath in hand, we approach a veteran’s headstone, say their name out loud, and thank them for their service out loud. It is an extremely moving experience.
I encourage all who can volunteer to lay wreaths to sign up on the website provided in the article. If you cannot attend, please consider sponsoring a wreath.
As a Gold Star Mother, I can share that not a day goes by without me thinking about Joel. He gave his life in his pursuit to improve the world. He gave his life to rescue an injured British Marine.
Remembering the sacrifices of all veterans and their families during the holidays is especially important because it is a very painful time of year.
I am volunteering to help at Wreaths Across America in Chelsea. I will lay the wreaths I sponsored on Joel’s headstone and (I hope) Clifford Collinsworth’s headstone. I hope to see you there and hear you “say their names”.
Judy Gentz
Chelsea
