Wreaths Across America stops in Bella Vista
Scouts, veterans and others gathered at the Bella Vista Memorial Garden Cemetery to honor deceased veterans with wreaths last Saturday afternoon.
The event was organized by Bentonville High School student Sancho Mariano, 17, who said he hopes to attend the Air Force Academy and work toward becoming an aerospace engineer after high school.
Mariano said he’s been working with city government officials while fundraising for the event and organizing the event itself.
“It’s been very busy. … It’s hard to go to all these stores and personally ask for donations,” he said.
The challenge has been a good chance to work on his public speaking and other skills, he said, and it’s generally a great opportunity to do some community service.
Cemetery manager James Rather said he appreciates seeing so
many young people working on a project like this.
“I think it’s a wonderful thing to do for vets who are interred here, recognize the military and what they do,” he said. “It’s been a pleasure to be able to work with this young man.”
Scout leader Jennifer Scott, heading up Cub Scout Pack 36, Den 2, said that this ceremony is a good chance for the kids to do some community service and earn a belt loop.
“We are just finding a way to serve the community,” she said, noting the scouts weren’t scared off by Saturday’s chilly weather.
After a presentation at the cemetery’s center, Cub Scout Harrison Goldner, 7, placed a wreath before a veteran’s grave marker.
His mother, Lindsey Goldner, said she was glad he got the chance to do this. It’s a net benefit for the community and scouts alike, she said.
“We’re proud to be here and teach our kids about what these men and women have done to serve our country,” she said.