Olive Branch honors veterans with Wreaths Across America
Photo: A mother and daughter pause to honor a veteran with a wreath at the Blocker Cemetery grave site Saturday. (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)
Olive Branch — What began as a heartfelt idea in 2022 has quickly become one of Olive Branch’s most meaningful annual traditions. The city’s Wreaths Across America ceremony, held at Blocker Cemetery, continues to grow in scope and impact, ensuring that every veteran laid to rest is remembered with honor.
The local observance started when residents Ed and Dianna Crumpler, moved by their experience traveling with the national Wreaths Across America organization, approached Mayor Ken Adams and City Communications Director Jay Nichols about bringing the tradition to Olive Branch. Their vision became reality on Dec. 17, 2022, when Olive Branch hosted its inaugural ceremony.
Blocker Cemetery is where the observance is held. The city‑owned resting place holds the remains of more than 250 veterans, with service records stretching back to the 1800s.
Growth and Milestones
– 2022 (Inaugural Year): The first ceremony honored 242 veterans, with Command Sgt. Maj. Finis A. Dodson delivering the keynote address.
– 2024 (Third Annual): The number of identified veteran graves rose to 252. State Rep. Rodney Hall spoke, and the Olive Branch High School Marine Corps JROTC presented the colors.
– 2025 (Fourth Annual): This year’s ceremony featured keynote speaker Lt. Col. Shannon Bibbee, a decorated Army officer and Olive Branch resident, underscoring the event’s deep local ties.
Ceremony Traditions
The event is coordinated by the City of Olive Branch alongside volunteers. Each wreath is placed with reverence, accompanied by the “Say Their Name” tradition as volunteers step back and speak the veteran’s name aloud, ensuring no one is forgotten.
Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of remembrance: “Each wreath laid here today represents far more than a moment in a ceremony. It represents a life lived, a fulfilled duty, and a heart devoted to something greater than self.”
Lt. Col. Bibbee echoed that sentiment, reminding attendees that the promise to never leave a fallen comrade extends beyond the battlefield: “They are not left behind. They are not forgotten. This Christmas season, they will be loved, honored, and remembered.”
Community Impact
Olive Branch’s Wreaths Across America ceremony has now become an annual, powerful reminder of sacrifice and service. With full coverage of veteran graves achieved each year, the ceremony reflects the city’s commitment to honoring its heroes and teaching future generations the value of remembrance.
