
Honoring Heroes: Walmart’s Enduring Partnership with Wreaths Across America
For Walmart Private Fleet driver Steve Weldon, delivering wreaths for Wreaths Across America is more than just another assignment—it’s a personal tribute. For Weldon, the journey is a way to honor the memory of Reggie St. Pierre Jr., a mentor, colleague, and close friend who passed away in 2011. Each year, Walmart drivers like Weldon play a crucial role in transporting thousands of wreaths to cemeteries across the United States, participating in a profound tradition of honoring veterans on National Wreaths Across America Day.
As General Transportation Manager Jenny Lovering explains, “The wreaths are the most meaningful cargo our drivers will haul throughout their entire careers.”
A Journey of Remembrance
The path to remembrance begins in Columbia Falls, Maine, where each wreath is crafted by hand. These wreaths, symbolic of respect and gratitude, are then entrusted to Walmart’s fleet of drivers, who ensure their safe delivery to resting places of veterans across the nation. This includes iconic locations such as Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania—a site that commemorates the bravery of the 40 passengers and crew aboard Flight 93 during the September 11, 2001, attacks.
Once the wreaths reach their destinations, communities unite to lay them at the graves of service members. On Saturday, December 14, this tradition will continue at more than 4,000 veterans’ cemeteries nationwide. Walmart associates, along with thousands of volunteers, will join hands to honor the sacrifices of the fallen. Over 130 of these locations will see Walmart associates actively participating in this solemn event, ensuring the stories of America’s servicemen and women are remembered and passed on.
A Legacy of Partnership
Walmart’s relationship with Wreaths Across America began in 2008. What initially started as a local initiative has since grown into a national effort. The mission of Wreaths Across America is clear: to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation about the sacrifices made by military personnel. This mission aligns closely with Walmart’s values, particularly as one of the nation’s largest employers of U.S. veterans.
Beyond transportation, Walmart has provided significant financial and in-kind support to Wreaths Across America over the years. In 2023, the company awarded a $750,000 grant to the organization, ensuring sustained support for the next five years. Additionally, this year alone, Walmart, Sam’s Club, and supply chain facilities contributed over $126,000 in Spark Good local grants to support Wreaths Across America and its affiliated community programs.
Honoring Through Action
For Walmart drivers and associates, participating in Wreaths Across America is not just about logistics—it’s about making a meaningful impact. The cross-country journey of these wreaths serves as a powerful reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice embodied by U.S. veterans.
The drivers’ commitment, like that of Steve Weldon, reflects the deep personal connections many feel to the cause. The annual delivery of wreaths is both a privilege and a solemn duty for Walmart’s fleet, as they transport not just wreaths, but symbols of a nation’s gratitude.
Walmart’s involvement extends to the placement of wreaths as well. Across the country, Walmart associates join the ranks of community volunteers to carefully lay wreaths on gravesites, pausing to reflect on the lives of the veterans being honored.
A Season of Reflection
During the often-busy holiday season, Wreaths Across America offers a moment to pause and reflect on the true meaning of sacrifice. It’s a time to remember those who gave their all for the freedoms we enjoy today. For Walmart, supporting this mission is one way to give back and ensure these legacies are never forgotten.
The work of Wreaths Across America resonates deeply with Walmart’s associates and leadership, serving as a poignant reminder of the values that connect us all. From the careful crafting of wreaths in Maine to their placement at cemeteries nationwide, every step of this journey underscores the enduring gratitude owed to the men and women who have served our country.
As the wreaths make their way across the nation this week, their presence inspires a collective act of remembrance, reminding us that honoring our heroes is one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer during this season of giving.
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