KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — For this year's Wreaths Across America Day, people placed a wreath on every grave site at the Knoxville National Cemetery.
"You can never really do enough or say enough to show thanks," Derek Jarrard said.
Co-organizer Misty Williams has coordinated the event for 10 years. She said this is their third year in a row covering 100% of the cemetery.
"This is the third year we have covered 100%," Williams said. "So each veteran has a wreath, which is a big deal. It shows you how people in this area in this community, they're just very veteran-friendly. They're willing to come out on a cold day in December, to honor the people that are here."
Organizers asked people to place the wreath and then speak the name of the veteran they were honoring.
"We know they're not forgotten but I think it just gives each person joy just to speak the name of each individual here that each person is left with a feeling of accomplishment," said Beverly Finch, a U.S. Air Force Veteran.
According to a press release from the organization, over 4,225 locations participated, including Arlington National Cemetery.
"The wreath is the catalyst, it brings together communities - families and strangers -- to learn about those who have served and sacrificed,” Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America, said.
The group is also asking for volunteers to return to the cemetery on Jan. 20 to collect the wreaths.