This is a great cause. Let's see how many members we can get to donate and/or help at their local national cemetery.
First I would like to once again thank everyone that helped raise money for this cause last year. I don't remember the exact amount, but JAM and the Z Forums raised about $1000.00.
Second I would like to thank the JAM Members that participated in the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. For the ones that didn't participate, I can't think of any words that can accurately describe the feeling you get laying a wreath on a passed service member's headstone. This year there are over 600 locations nation wide, so there is a good chance there is one near you.
For those that don't know, Wreaths Across America (WAA) is a non profit organization whose mission "Remember, Honor and Teach" is carried out in part by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies on the second Saturday of December at Arlington, as well as veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. They also organize a week of events including international veteran’s tributes, ceremonies at State Houses and a week-long “Veteran’s Parade” between Maine and Virginia where they stop along the way to spread their message about the importance of remembering our fallen heroes, honoring those who serve, and teaching our children about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families to preserve our freedoms. Everything you need to know about their organization can be found at http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org
Last year, at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, we laid well over 2000 wreaths. This year, however, we will need close to 3500. JAM has decided, once again, to raise money for as many wreaths as possible and to take part in the Wreath Laying Ceremony on December 10th. We really want to get more people involved nationally. If you are interested in that, please check out www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Locations/ to find the closest participating location and PM me to help get you started.
I have already signed up Mopar-Nation and JAM as a fundraising organization. Though we are signed up as Mopar-Nation for ease of identification, this is definitely intended for all of the Z Forumz.
Our first goal is to raise as much money as possible for WAA. I can't attach copies of the forms here, but PM me if you would like me to send them to you. Each wreath cost $15.00, however signing up as a fundraising organization entitles us to receive a free wreath for every two purchased. To get this things moving, I say we have a little friendly competition. As long as I receive the info, I will keep track of donations by individuals, forums, chapters etc. and let everyone know what is going on.
The second goal is to have mass participation in the ceremonies on December 10th. These are ultimately organized by local leaders, but we can still participate as a group. With that being said here are a couple of things to know.
1. The easiest way to donate is by credit card at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org, but if you prefer, I can send you the form so you can send a check, money order etc. to me or directly to WAA.
2. Please use FLMNJAM1 as the group ID number. You can then choose which location you prefer to donate to.
3. All donations must be to the WAA offices by November 28th.
If anyone needs forms or more information, please let me know and I will get them to you ASAP.
Doyle
jstkilntim