Pulaski Times

The holiday season offers a chance to gather with loved ones and cherish special memories. This period of joy is made possible by the freedom we enjoy in our country, a freedom that has been hard-won through the sacrifices of countless Americans over more than two centuries.

These servicemembers have fought to protect our nation and its values, allowing us to build a society rich in opportunity and liberty. While it is impossible to fully repay their sacrifices, it remains crucial to honor them, especially during this time of year.

A particular acknowledgment goes out to active duty servicemembers who are deployed far from home. Their commitment often means spending holidays away from family and friends. The gratitude for their dedication is profound.

One way Americans express appreciation for military personnel during Christmas is by visiting cemeteries where fallen soldiers rest. These visits serve as a reminder that these heroes are not forgotten.

In Arkansas, efforts are made to show gratitude by adorning graves with tokens of respect. Fort Smith's Christmas Honors began in 2009 and involves hundreds of volunteers placing wreaths on over 16,000 headstones at the National Cemetery. In Little Rock, Arkansas National Guard soldiers assist local volunteers in honoring unknown servicemembers at the Little Rock National Cemetery.

This mission extends beyond Arkansas. Since 1992, Wreaths Across America has grown nationally, promoting its motto "remember, honor and teach." The organization hosts events across Arkansas to encourage community involvement in memorializing veterans during Christmas.

The group encourages participants to speak each veteran's name aloud as a way of keeping their memory alive throughout the year but especially during the holidays when families miss them most.

The holidays inspire acts of kindness such as honoring military communities who enable peaceful gatherings and traditions. This commitment reflects gratitude for the precious gift they provide.