Calling all bow makers for the Everlasting Gratitude Wreath Program

By Lorraine Glowczak

Veterans Day is now behind us but that should not stop us from showing our gratitude for all veterans, including those who have passed. The American Legion Post and Legion Auxiliary will provide an opportunity to show veteran appreciation through their Everlasting Gratitude Wreath Program and bow making workshop on Monday, November 19 at 9 a.m. The workshop will continue throughout the day until all 900 bows are completed.

“In the past, depending upon the number of volunteers, we are usually done within 3 and a half

hours,” stated Pam Whynot, President of Auxiliary 148.

Founded by Libby Jordan of Studio Flora, the Everlasting Gratitude Wreath Program began in 2013. It is now coordinated and funded by the American Legion Field-Allen Post and continues to work in collaboration with Studio Flora.

For those who may hesitate to volunteer due to inexperience in bow making, one should not fear. Studio Flora staff will provide the training needed.

The Bow making workshop is also a time to meet new people and to give back to those who risked their lives. “There will be veterans, Auxiliary members, family, friends and lots of community members,” Whynot explained. “It is a time to meet a lot of new friends, have many laughs while making bows, drinking coffee and eating snacks. The experience is very casual and friendly and it is a way to show love, respect and honor for our veterans.”

Once completed, the bow adorned evergreen wreaths will be placed on the graves of each Veteran in the cemeteries of the Town of Windham.

This year, the wreaths will be placed on the veterans’ cemeteries Saturday, December 1 beginning at 9 a.m. The wreaths will be delivered by Studio Flora to Arlington and Smith cemeteries. Other cemeteries will be covered in late November by Legion and Veterans of Foreign War Post members.

The December date at Arlington is also open for the community who wish to participate in this annual event. The Smith cemetery distribution will be coordinated by the Windham High School Jr. Cadets.

For more information regarding the placing of the wreaths, contact David Tanguay, Post Adjutant, at 892-1306. For more information about volunteering at the bow making workshop, contact Whynot at pwhynot81719@roadrunner.com.