For Sedgefield neighbors Jeff and Lyssa Colt, a simple act of remembrance has grown into a mission they hope will unite the Sedgefield community for years to come.

After nearly two years of work, the couple successfully had Guilford Memorial Park approved as an official Wreaths Across America location for 2026. On Saturday, December 19, volunteers will gather there for the first local ceremony, with an ambitious goal of honoring every veteran laid to rest in the cemetery.

That goal is no small undertaking. Guilford Memorial Park is the final resting place for approximately 3,400 veterans, and each commemorative wreath costs $17. Jeff and Lyssa are now inviting residents, businesses, churches and civic groups to help sponsor wreaths and volunteer for the inaugural event.

Jeff first experienced Wreaths Across America while living in Texas, where he witnessed the impact of communities coming together to honor those who served.

“I was fortunate to be part of the Wreaths Across America program when I lived in Texas and was impressed with the organization,” Jeff says. “My wife and I started two years ago trying to bring it to our local cemetery and were shocked how many veterans were there. We hope to honor as many veterans as we can in our first year. Our early conversations with community partners have been very promising.”

Founded on the mission to Remember, Honor, Teach, Wreaths Across America places fresh balsam fir wreaths on veterans’ graves each December. The tradition is perhaps best known through the thousands of wreaths placed annually at Arlington National Cemetery, but it extends to participating cemeteries and memorial sites across the country, bringing the act of remembrance into local communities.

“Jeff and I were excited when we were approved this year as a 2026 location,” Lyssa says. “We feel like the Sedgefield community will embrace this program. It is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with your family, friends, work or church group and community on the Saturday before Christmas. Please consider joining us!”

The December ceremony is only part of the effort. Volunteers will also be needed in late January to help remove the wreaths from veterans’ graves, providing another opportunity for neighbors to take part even if they are away during the holidays.