Alabama began its annual Wreaths Across America observance this week with a solemn ceremony held inside the Alabama Capitol, bringing together veterans groups, state officials and community members to honor the state’s fallen heroes.

Hosted by the Blue Star Salute Foundation and Governor Kay Ivey, the ceremony marked the 17th year that Alabama has participated in the national remembrance effort.

The program kicked off a week of activities leading up to Wreaths Across America Day, which Governor Kay Ivey designated for Saturday, December 13, 2025, in an official proclamation. The Foundation shared pictures from the event on Facebook.

Commissioner Jeff Newton of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs presented the proclamation to Blue Star Salute President Tom Long and concluded the ceremony by performing “Taps.” The department described the gathering as an “impactful, emotional event.”

Participants included members of the Alabama Wing Civil Air Patrol, Opera Birmingham’s Amanda Carmichael, Gold Star Wives past president Sandra Robinson and Major General David Pritchett, the Adjutant General of Alabama.

The Capitol ceremony serves as the opening observance before wreath-laying events take place across the state, including at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, where families, volunteers and service members will honor those who served and sacrificed.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].