AUSTIN, Texas — Many see it as a special day to honor and remember veterans during the holiday season.
Wreaths Across America held its event on Saturday at the Texas State Cemetery, where thousands of remembrance wreaths were set on the graves of fallen veterans.
A total of 3,315 wreaths were sponsored, which was 7% over the goal, exceeded by 215 wreaths.
"It's hard to describe the sense of pride that wells up in your heart to see everybody out here honoring these people that gave their lives," said Chris Margraves, who was out there Saturday setting wreaths.
It was also the first year Richard Overton was honored at the event.
Overton, a Bastrop County native, was America's oldest living World War II veteran who passed away last year.
A ceremony with speakers, the playing of "taps" and a 21-gun salute happened before the wreaths were set around the cemetery.
"It's surreal, seeing all these people come out, all these wreaths being placed so quickly, so beautifully," said Jeremy Brooks.
A veteran himself, Brooks laid the suicide awareness wreath in honor of his father and his friends that he served with in Iraq.
"That wreath today, that was for everybody," said Brooks.
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At one point there was concern there would not be enough wreaths to go around, and the organization only had 900 of the 3,100 wreaths needed. But thanks to help from KVUE and its viewers, the organization said it reached its goal.
Remmer Machamer, an 8-year-old boy of Cedar Park, was also recognized for his contributions. Last year, he raised more than $2,000 for Wreaths Across America by going door to door in the area. This year, he raised more than $4,000 for the organization.
"It means a lot," said Machamer. "But the soldiers have done way more than I have."
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