Dec. 11, 2017
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| Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware) honored the sacrifices of our military and their families during a ceremony at the Capitol on Monday, Dec. 11, in anticipation of the annual wreath-laying ceremony to be held by Wreaths Across America this weekend. |
HARRISBURG – In memory of all United States Armed Forces personnel, Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware), majority chairman of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, and the Gold and Blue Star Mothers hosted a wreath-laying ceremony in partnership with Wreaths Across America at the Pennsylvania State Capitol.
“As we enter the joyous holiday season, it’s important to remember that this time is not a happy one for everyone. Many families are missing their loved ones who were lost in battle or are still serving our country,” Barrar said. “Today’s ceremony was a recognition of these families, and, of course, of the soldiers fighting for us now.”
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Ceremony. Its mission, “Remember, Honor, Teach,” is carried out in part by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies each December in all 50 state Capitols.
Individual wreaths, signifying every branch of the armed services, were formally presented by respective representatives of the military, as well as Gold and Blue Star Mothers. The remembrance wreath was also presented.
Maj. Gen. Tony Carrelli, the adjutant general of the Pennsylvania Military and Veterans Affairs, and Lt. Col. Sally Hannan, U.S. Army garrison commander at the Carlisle Barracks, spoke at the ceremony. Members of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee also joined to honor veterans and active duty military.
The Central Dauphin High School choir, under the direction of John Madas, performed at the ceremony. Maj. Schaun Myers, the Pennsylvania Army National Guard Support chaplain, gave the invocation and benediction. The posting and retiring of colors were provided by The Pennsylvania Military Funeral Honors Guard.
Representative Stephen E. Barrar
160th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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