The PGR has been asked to participate in the Wreaths Across America Program, at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. This will consist of a flag line prior to and during the ceremony, after which there will be an opportunity to assist with laying the wreaths. Rally at cemetery and dress for the weather. Join us on National Wreaths Across America Day December 13, 2025. Each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, our mission to Remember, Honor and Teach is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as other cemeteries across the country.
A special note for this year’s ceremony: As many of you know, we lost the original organizer of this mission in Iowa, Patrick Palmersheim, earlier this year. Patrick began this effort in 2008 with just seven wreaths, setting in motion a tradition of honor and remembrance that has continued to grow each year.
Today, his legacy lives on through his family. Patrick’s grandson, Anthony Knaack, and his daughter, Michelle Knaack, have stepped forward to continue the mission he began. This is their first year leading the effort, and they are doing a remarkable job carrying the torch with the same dedication and heartfelt purpose that Patrick embodied.
Thanks to their leadership—and to the support of our community—more than 5,200 wreaths will be laid this year, with an additional 100 held in reserve to ensure that no one is overlooked. Every wreath will remain in place until they are respectfully retired in February.
Date/Time: Saturday 13DEC2025, 11:00 AM
Rally Time: 10:00 AM
Rally Point:
Iowa Veterans Cemetery Committal Shelter
Van Meter, Iowa
https://goo.gl/maps/WtShndQURSFhDtBr9
Ride Captain:
John Ellis
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515-689-9160
Posted By:
Rich Shipley
Assistant State Captain
Iowa PGR
