Governor, First Lady honor veterans at wreath ceremony

AUSTIN – Gov. Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott honored the service and sacrifice of Texas veterans at the Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony December 16 at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin.

Held as part of the annual National Wreaths Across America Day, this is the fifth year Governor Abbott has participated in the ceremony.

“Today, we gather to honor those who served our country to ensure the freedoms we enjoy each and every day,” Governor Abbott said. “To serve your country, and give your life for your fellow citizens, takes courage and selflessness that many in this nation will never know.”

The Governor and First Lady were joined at the ceremony by Wreaths Across America Chair Missy Roberts, Texas State Cemetery Committee Chair Tom Sellers, and Texas State Cemetery Committee Board Members Jim Bayless and Carolyn Hodges.

“My brother, Bud, is a retired Commander in the U.S. Navy, where he served for 20 years,” Abbott said. “I’m proud of his service to our country and the service of so many brave men and women like him. By laying these wreaths, we acknowledge the sacrifice of our veterans, and we honor those who still serve the greatest nation in the history of the world.”

During the ceremony, Governor Abbott presented a proclamation to 12-year-old Remmer Machamer from Cedar Park to recognize his efforts in honoring veterans through Wreaths Across America.

For the past six years, Remmer has raised more than $75,000 for Wreaths Across America by going door-to-door, organizing community fundraising events, and speaking before organizations.

Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization founded in 2007 to honor fallen heroes across the nation, work with local veterans organizations, and teach younger generations about the value of their freedoms secured by the sacrifices of the United States Armed Forces.