Ridley High School will proudly welcome Wreaths Across America (WAA) on Thursday, December 12, as part of a nationwide effort to honor American veterans. Supported by thousands of volunteers, WAA aims to fulfill its mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach through the annual tradition of laying wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery and at over 1,200 locations across the United States.
The journey of the wreaths, which begins in Harrington, Maine, has become a cherished annual event. The convoy passes through towns along the East Coast, giving local communities an opportunity to share in the powerful experience of remembrance and gratitude. Each year, the sight of the wreath-laden trucks, accompanied by an escort of Patriot Guard Riders, volunteers, and veterans, draws crowds who gather to pay their respects and support the mission.
This year’s convoy will make a stop at Ridley High School for a special remembrance ceremony scheduled at 9:30 a.m. in the school gymnasium. The event will feature local and state dignitaries, first responders, and representatives from veterans' organizations, including American Gold Star Mothers, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Leading the convoy are Morrill and Karen Worcester, the founder and executive director of WAA, respectively, alongside American Gold Star Families, active and retired military members, and over 50 Patriot Guard Riders. This year’s escort includes more than 10 tractor-trailer trucks and nearly 100 dedicated volunteers.
The Ridley High School visit is one of approximately 12 stops the convoy will make en route to Arlington, where it will conclude its journey on Saturday, December 14. In Arlington, thousands of volunteers will gather to place wreaths at the graves of service members, ensuring that the memory of those who served is kept alive and honored.
Ridley High School extends an invitation to local families, agencies, Gold Star Mothers, and students with active military family members, as well as Ridley School District alumni currently serving in the armed forces, to participate in this moving event.
Parade Route:
The Wreaths Across America Convoy will arrive in Ridley at approximately 8:50 AM, exiting I-95 at Stewart Avenue. The route is as follows:
Right onto Chester Pike
Left onto N. Swarthmore Avenue
Onto
Morton Avenue
Enter Ridley High School parking lot by 9:00 AM