Christmas is a time when many people feel the pain of loss more acutely, as they miss sharing annual traditions with those who have passed. That makes it an ideal time to remember those people, and while many families may place wreaths of their own on gravesites and memorials, one Maine-based group has taken it upon themselves to recognize and honor those who may otherwise be forgotten this holiday.

Wreaths Across America, an initiative started by Harrington-based wreath manufacturer Morrill Worcester, began placing wreaths on veterans’ graves in Arlington National Cemetery 20 years ago. Today, it’s a widely recognized nonprofit that draws many volunteers to organize not only the national wreath ceremony,  but also many local ceremonies throughout the country.

According to event coordinator John O’Leary, who spoke to Jameson Elementary School students in late November, the organization will lay more than 350,000 wreaths at more than 800 locations this year. He said last year, 15,000 volunteers laid 90,000 wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery alone.

While the wreath is a holiday staple, its symbolism goes even deeper historically ”“ including such meanings as unity, peace, strength, welcome and eternal life ”“ making it an ideal object to place on veterans’ graves.

Wreaths Across America’s motto is “remember, honor, teach.” By stopping at schools and taking part in local veterans ceremonies both before and during the wreath procession to Arlington, the organization is certainly fulfilling that mission, educating young people not only about veterans, but about what it means to be an American.

The Old Orchard Beach students heard from O’Leary about the wreath program, as well as the sacrifices and contributions of veterans. Then they took action of their own, writing letters to veterans and making Christmas ornaments that will be given to veterans.

In Wells, the convoy made a stop on its way out of Maine Monday, incorporating Wells Junior High School students in a wreath-laying ceremony at the nearby Ocean View Cemetery, where 488 veterans are buried.

These moments are a vitally important way of teaching our youth about pride in country and imbuing them with an understanding of respect and honor that will stay with them throughout their lives. It’s a glimpse at the living impacts of the events they’ve learned about in history books and recent news, whether they see the tears of a Gold Star mother or hear the extra effort given to thank previously scorned Vietnam veterans for their service.

The Wreaths Across America convoy left Maine on Dec. 9 and will place wreaths on graves in Arlington National Cemetery this Saturday. Three more ceremonies are planned locally, to coincide with the Arlington National Cemetery remembrance ”“ among an estimated 750 taking place nationwide that day. Ceremonies include: Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Springvale at noon; Laurel Hill Cemetery in Saco at noon; and South Buxton Cemetery at Tory Hill in Buxton at 11:45 a.m.

We applaud Wreaths Across America and all of its supporters for their gesture of remembrance of our nation’s fallen during this holiday season, both here and in Fort Myer, Va. When we are focusing on that ideal of “peace on Earth,” it makes sense to take a moment to remember those who fought and died for it.

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Today’s editorial was written by Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski on behalf of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Kristen by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.