NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — Camp Nelson National Cemetery took part in this year’s Wreaths Across America, welcoming hundreds through its gates.
Local volunteers raised more than $100,000 leading up to the event. The money paid for more than 10,000 wreaths laid on Saturday. Those covered approximately two-thirds of all the graves at the cemetery.
“You’re given the gift of laying a wreath. Of telling someone thank you,” said John Sims, a Gulf War veteran. “That’s the big picture here is the thank you’s.”
Parking filled quickly at Camp Nelson and visitors used shuttle buses and volunteer-driven golf carts to make the trek from the gates to the ceremony.
“Right now just looking at everybody here and how much passion they have on a cold, rainy day to come out and help and be a part of this is just truly amazing,” said Rena Elswick, a volunteer. “That’s America.”
The wreaths will remain on the graves for 30 days.
