Empire State University Community Supports Wreaths Across America

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY -- December 19, 2023) On Saturday, December 16, Empire State University employees, students and alumni across New York state participated in Wreaths Across America ceremonies. The ceremonies are meant to remember the fallen and honor those that serve by laying wreaths on veterans’ graves. Read the stories of our community members who participated in Wreaths Across America below.  

Location: Gerald B. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY 

“I have family members who served in the military and who are members of the Earl J. Manning American Legion Post 490 Stillwater. They made 400 breakfast sandwiches (all the food is donated by Hannaford) that were wrapped and given to volunteers placing wreaths on graves. 16,000 wreaths were laid on tombstones in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.”

Location: Gerald B. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY 

"I was raised in the 1970s when family traditions, duty, honor, and country centered on a strong belief of a higher power. My family name (Philip Sherman) goes back to the early 1600s, coming to Massachusetts from England in search of religious freedom and opportunity to settle in the New World.  

Benoni Sherman (French and Indian Wars) Rhode Island Militia. Solomon Sherman (American Revolution) Rhode Island Militia. Jethro & Philo Sherman, Asa Reynolds & Lyman Steele (Civil War). 

I am honored to be a direct descendant of the men listed. They were great-grandfathers from both sides of my mother and fathers' families, and Philo was a great uncle. I retired from military service after 27 years in the Army and Marine Corps. I am a humbled and prideful man surrounded by "Giants" who gave me lineage to continue a long tradition of service to my Country and its People. Respectfully, CW4 (Retired) Brian Sherman USA & United States Marine Corps Empire Alumni Class of 2017." 

Location: Woodlawn National Cemetery, Syracuse, NY 

“My grandparents served in the military along with my husband's uncle and brother. We have attended this event every year since my children were born. They are 6 now[twins] and each year they have helped us set wreaths on our veterans' graves while saying their names aloud. It gives me peace of mind knowing my kids will grow up knowing and honoring those who have fought for our freedoms and someday they may be one of them.”

Location: Woodlawn National Cemetery, Syracuse, NY