GREENVILLE — The Fort GreeneVille Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution joined more than 4,300 participating locations nationwide Saturday in hosting a Wreaths Across America ceremony, laying wreaths on every veteran’s grave at Greenville Union Cemetery.
DAR Regent Debbie Nisonger welcomed guests and opened the program with a moment of silence, remembering the fallen, prisoners of war, and those missing in action, while honoring all who have served — and continue to serve — in the nation’s armed forces.
“This year, across the country at more than 4,300 participating locations like this one, millions of Americans are gathering as one nation to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach our children the value of freedom,” Nisonger said.
She also announced the 2025 Wreaths Across America theme, “Keep Moving Forward,” inspired by the final words of Captain Joshua Byers, a United States Army officer killed in action in Iraq on July 23, 2003.
“Joshua Byers was the company commander of Fox Troop, 2/3 Armored Cavalry Regiment, serving in Iraq in 2003 when an IED struck his Humvee,” Nisonger explained. “As smoke filled the air, Josh gave his driver one last command — ‘Keep moving forward.’ Though he did not make it home, that command saved lives and became a battle cry for his unit and his family.”
The theme reflects perseverance in the face of hardship, a message echoed by Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America.
“There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities, and as a country,” Worcester said. “But we must keep moving forward together. This year, we share not only the Byers family’s story of resilience, but also the stories of countless others who live with purpose every day and choose to keep moving forward.”
Nisonger emphasized that the Fort GreeneVille Chapter continues that mission year-round.
“The Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR keeps moving forward in honoring our veterans and active military throughout the year,” she said. “We should always remember and never forget.”
She concluded by reminding those in attendance of the cost of freedom.
“We are proud to be Americans living in a free society made up of people from many walks of life,” Nisonger said. “The freedoms we enjoy today have not come without a price. Lying here before us — and in cemeteries across this nation — are men and women who gave their lives so that we may live in freedom and without fear.”
