Record Crowd Turns Out For Wreaths Across America - KXNet - Bismarck/Minot/Williston/Dickinson

Military supporters have made it their mission to continue and pay tribute to those who have served.

Saturday, military members host "Wreaths Across America Day", an event where wreaths are placed on every gravestone at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Members of the Bismarck Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol host the event, carrying on a tradition of remembering those who have gone before us.

Master of Ceremonies speaker, Sean Johnson says it's important for this generation and the next.

 "We have to honor those that continue that tradition in the armed services of our nation and never forget them -- especially at Christmas when so many of them are away from home. And, of course, part of this is teaching our children that freedom has a price, but a life of freedom is priceless." says Sean Johnson / Civil Air Patrol, USAF Auxiliary.

Over 600 cemeteries participate nationwide, and overseas, and local organizers say the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery is always in the top five.

Saturday morning was no different as an estimated 1,200 people -- a record crowd -- showed up and stood in the cold to honor service members.

 "I think it's a great way to honor our veterans. Often times they go, we take them for granted, and don't remember the sacrifice that they've given for our freedom and for our country -- and especially our generation a lot of times don't appreciate what we've been given." says Anna Bernhardt /New Salem Almont High School.

 "We just wanted to give our time -- for the people that gave their time for our freedoms." says Richard Cole / American Legion Post 91.

This marks the sixth year Bismarck Civil Air Patrol has supported "Wreaths Across America."

The Patrol was responsible for obtaining sponsorship of 4,100 wreaths -- surpassing all previous years.

You can view the wreaths at the Veterans Cemetery -- south of Mandan, along Highway 1806.