Wreaths Across America visited the town of Oxford and surrounding areas on Dec. 17 to remember veterans with the laying of wreaths. For the last few years, Clarissa Sherrow’s name has become synonymous with Wreaths Across America, as she has worked diligently as a fundraiser and organizer for the effort since 2019.

Each December, on National Wreaths Across America Day, the mission is to Remember, Honor and Teach and that mission is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as at more than 3,700 additional locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad.

One added bonus of the ceremony is that many small cemeteries, once forgotten or neglected, have been brought back into the spotlight, rescued and renewed as a result of this effort.

Mt. Calvary Cemetery, the final resting place for veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War II, including Colored Troops is one of the local cemeteries that has also gained some much deserved recognition through the Wreaths program. This past year local scout Mason Salve, from Boy Scout Troop 13, restored the cemetery as an Eagle Scout project. 

The Oxford Cemetery has been a main location for the laying of wreaths since the effort began, but this year the ceremony included Lincoln University, Elk Creek, and Fremont Cemeteries.

“It is so important for our community to learn about the involvement of so many local veterans,” Sherrow said. “This has always been a community effort. It never would have been possible without the support of so many, including individuals, families of veterans and local businesses. This year we placed 1,300 wreaths.”

And this year, fundraising included a very successful corn hole event held at Redmen’s Hall that raised $1,800. There was also a Wreaths Across America Craft Fair fundraiser and the individual donations that support this program are vital.

Sherrow explained that beside the wreath laying ceremony the community involvement is a big part of the program.

Peters Brothers Trucking Company of Lenhartsville, Pa. delivered the wreaths to Oxford and Sherrow thanked them and others.

“We need to thank the Oxford Police Department, Chester County Sheriff’s Department, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and many, many volunteers,” Sherrow said. “And we are always looking for new fundraising ideas and more volunteers.”

They also focus on a Gold Star family each year. This year it was the family of Cpl.  Anthony Williams, who was killed in Afghanistan on March 22, 2009.

This year 2.7 million wreaths were placed at 3,702 locations. So, when one ceremony ends, a new one begins. Sherrow hopes people start thinking now about next year. Check out the website at https://wreathsacrossamerica.org to see how to donate.

Sherrow has a place in her heart for veterans and has also organized the Veterans Breakfast each year in November. Her efforts and involvement in the community also encourages others in the Oxford area to do more for the community.