A nation's breath beneath the burning sun, Where hope and weary prayers are spun. We lay the United States, our home, our fray, Upon this altar at the close of day. The Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ we invoke, To heal the heavy chains of every yoke, Inviting grace to mend the fractured land, And guide us with a firm, compassionate hand. Asking that hope be more than passing light, But strength to pull us from the edge of night, To trade our pride for peace that will not cease,

Wreath Laying at the Corinth National Cemetery, 2025 by Anne Hendricks, M.Ed. The ground is hushed beneath the winter sun, In Corinth, where the solemn stones all lie. A sacred duty, once again begun, Beneath the vast Mississippi sky. The lines of white, a silent, perfect row Bear names of heroes from a distant fight, From Civil War's long, agonizing woe, To battles fought in freedom's modern light. And here we gather, not for pomp or show, But with the green of life to crown

Every December, communities across the United States come together to honor the brave men and women who served in the armed forces. One of the most meaningful ways this respect is shown is through the laying of wreaths on veterans' graves in national cemeteries. This year, the Corinth National Cemetery in Mississippi will host its local Wreaths Across America event at 11 AM on December 13. This gathering offers a solemn moment to remember those who sacrificed for our freedom.