A group of PSEG Long Island employees recently participated in a nationwide campaign to honor fallen service members by laying wreaths at their gravesites for the holidays. In 2021, more than 50 co-workers supported the Wreaths Across America movement at both Calverton National Cemetery and Long Island National Cemetery at Pinelawn.
Here is some of what the volunteers said about their experience:
“I have been participating in Wreaths Across America for many years, and I recall one year when it snowed. The image of the footpaths of the volunteers between the graves lined with wreaths was an overwhelming sight,” said Dave Maul of Eastport. “I support our veterans through this event and other similar activities because I feel it’s the least I can do to honor those who have fought and also died protecting our lives and our freedom.”
“It was great to spend a few hours with colleagues outside of work on a rainy Saturday to honor our fallen heroes,” said Sean O’Brien of Medford. “Everyone is capable of doing good, and I’m glad PSEG Long Island gives us opportunities to give back and do good for others and to help our community. I’m grateful I could be part of something this big and important.”
“Our great country has been independent for 246 years,” said Ed Petrocelli of Mount Sinai. “We honor fallen brave Americans by placing wreaths on their graves because they are the patriots who ensured our country is free and strong. It’s not an exaggeration to say that I am humbled to pay tribute to them.”
“Taking a few minutes to honor these veterans who have served in the armed forces is not too much to ask of ourselves,” said Dan Gutiw of Riverhead, who added, “I’m happy to do my part.”
“It is of utmost importance for me, as an American, to teach my children to honor the veterans who have served our country selflessly. That is why I volunteered with my children, Liam, who is a cadet with the Lt. Michael Murphy Naval Sea Cadet Division, and Mila,” said Norberto Gutierrez of Mastic. “Wreaths Across America is just one way to partake in the celebration of our heroes during this holiday season, and it was an honor for all of us to do it.”
“I have been supporting Wreaths Across America, as well as other veteran-related causes, for as long as I can recall, as both a PSEG Long Island employee and as vice president of The Moonjumpers organization that supports local veterans and children in need,” said Raymond Homburger of Wading River. “I enjoy the camaraderie of getting together with PSEG Long Island colleagues on this day to honor our veterans. I come from a family of veterans, and I strongly believe that all Americans owe a debt of gratitude to those who served our country and fought for the freedom we all enjoy today.”
Volunteers lay wreaths each December – on National Wreaths Across America Day – at more than 2,500 locations across all 50 states and many U.S. territories, including Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., Long Island’s two national cemeteries, and on working military vessels. The movement is an effort to “remember our fallen U.S. veterans; honor those who serve; and teach children the value of our freedom.”
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