Cadets raising funds to support Wreaths Across America

Civil Air Patrol Cadets of the Kona Composite Squadron are raising funds to support Wreaths Across America, a tradition of placing wreaths on the headstones of our nation’s fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery and hundreds of other veterans cemeteries across the country during the holidays.

Due to the current COVID guidelines, our cadets are not able to conduct fundraising activities in a traditional manner, whether it be door-to-door, community outreach programs, or bake sales. Because of fund raising restrictions, the cadets are asking the Hawaii Island community to donate directly in support of this important ceremony.

Approximately 600 veterans interred at West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery will receive a wreath. Each handmade wreath is $15, which includes shipping costs to Hawaii. The Kona Composite Squadron receives $5 from donations that is used to provide scholarships to attend leadership development training throughout the state and on the mainland.

To donate, visit https://www.wreathsacross-america.org/pages/19972/Over-view/?relatedId=14810 or send your check payable to Wreaths Across America to WAA PO Box 2427, Kailua-Kona, HI 96745.

A wreath-placing ceremony is scheduled to take place at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery on Dec. 18. The community is invited to participate beginning at 9 a.m.

For more information, contact Lt. Col. Marlene Johnson at m.johnsoncap@gmail.com or (509) 961-9766.