Empathy is the Remedy Foundation has proudly partnered with Wreaths Across America (WAA) since 2021, becoming the official WAA Location Coordinator for Riverside National Cemetery in 2022. Our goal is to ensure that every veteran interred there receives a wreath, a symbol of our enduring gratitude. WAA was founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

Riverside National Cemetery, the largest and busiest VA cemetery in the nation, serves as a final resting place for over 315,000 veterans. We chose to partner with this cemetery to honor the countless heroes laid to rest here and ensure that their sacrifices are not forgotten. By participating in Wreaths Across America Day, we can show our gratitude and create a lasting legacy of remembrance. Every year, through Wreaths Across America, we strive to place a wreath on every grave. However, with so many heroes laid to rest, we need your help to reach them all.

2025’s theme is “Keep Moving Forward”. This year’s theme was inspired by the last words of Captain Joshua Byers, United States Army, KIA, in Fallujah, Iraq, July 23, 2003.  Joshua Byers was the Company Commander of Fox Troop in the 2/3ACR service in Iraq in 2003 when an IED struck his Humvee. As the smoke filled the air, Josh gave his driver a last command: “…keep moving forward.” Though Josh didn’t make it home, this command saved lives and became a battle cry for his unit and family.

“There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities and a country, but we must keep moving forward together,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America. “This year, we will share not only the Byers’ story of resilience but also the stories of many others who continue to live with purpose every day and have chosen to keep moving forward.”

Join us in honoring the heroes laid to rest at Riverside National Cemetery. As we place wreaths on their graves, we remember their sacrifice and ensure their legacy lives on.