PIERRE, S.D. (KCCR) – A wreath was laid Monday at the head of Pierre’s Flaming Fountain Veteran’s Memorial at Capitol Lake as a part of the 14th annual Wreaths Across America. Father Joseph Holzhauser from St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Pierre says the Wreaths Across America effort centers around three goals.
South Dakota National Guard Adjutant General Major General Jeff Marlette told the small crowd of around two dozen who bundled up in cold temperatures to watch the ceremony that the cold was fitting for the event.
Marlette says South Dakota’s fallen soldiers served to preserve their nation.
A three riffle volley salute and the playing of Taps were a part of the ceremony which was attended by South Dakota Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden. The national wreath laying will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. Central time at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C.