Wreaths Across America in Tehachapi

At 5 p.m. on Dec. 16, local veterans groups gathered at Freedom Plaza to place wreaths before the monuments representing the U.S. Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force and Merchant Marines. This year a seventh wreath was placed in honor of the 93,129 U.S. servicemen listed as MIA/POW. Following the National Anthem, sung by Marcus Coats, Mistress of Ceremonies Lynn Eckert of American Legion Post 221 introduced guest speaker, Sam McEwen. Local groups involved in the ceremonies were 5150 Dieselz, American Legion Post 221 and Auxiliary, VFW Post 5948 and Auxiliary, American Legion and Patriot Guard Riders and Blue Star Mothers. Local military groups also placed 745 wreaths at both Tehachapi cemeteries during the day.