A Sacred Pause: The Meaning of Saturday’s Wreath Ceremony

Wreath Laying Ceremony

Jonahville A.M.E. Zion Church Cemetery

Pastor Mark A.Evans

Saturday’s Wreath Laying Ceremony was more than a local gathering, it was part of a sacred moment happening across the nation this year, as communities intentionally paused to honor service, memory, and legacy. In a time when history is often hurried past, this ceremony reminded us that remembrance is an act of responsibility.

As the wreath was laid in honor of Private George Klutz, the air itself felt still. This year, ceremonies like this one carry deeper weight nationwide. They call us back to gratitude, to reflection, and to the truth that freedom has always come at a cost borne by real people, real families, and real communities.

The sound of TAPS, played with dignity by Nathaniel “Jake” Drisker, District 13 Commander, Post 1160 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, marked one of the most moving moments of the morning. TAPS has a way of reaching beyond words. Its notes carry sorrow, honor, and respect all at once, reminding us that service does not end when a life does, and neither does remembrance.

The ceremony opened with a prayer led by Minister Dearest Price, grounding the gathering in reverence and gratitude. The prayer called forth not only remembrance for Private Klutz, but comfort for families who carry the legacy of military service across generations. It acknowledged the unseen sacrifices, the spouses, children, nieces, nephews, and communities shaped by duty and devotion.

Attendees were warmly welcomed by Deaconess Diane Chappelle, whose presence reflected the strength of faith institutions in preserving memory. The ceremony was graciously hosted by Lois Johnson, whose leadership ensured that every moment was handled with care, dignity, and respect.

One of the most powerful reflections came from Stephanie Cureton, niece of George Klutz, who spoke on her uncle’s legacy. Her words bridged history and family, reminding everyone present that behind every uniform is a human story, one of love, perseverance, and quiet courage. Through her voice, George Klutz was not only remembered as a soldier, but as an uncle, a family man, and a thread in a much larger story that continues today.

Private George Klutz, born March 11, 1908, served his country during World War II and now rests at Jonahville A.M.E. Zion Church Cemetery, a place that holds both memory and meaning. This ceremony did more than honor his service; it reaffirmed a commitment to never allow such lives to be forgotten.

Across the nation, wreath ceremonies this year are standing as reminders that remembrance is not passive. It is an action. It is a choice. It is a declaration that legacy matters.

Saturday’s gathering showed us what it looks like when faith, family, veterans, and community come together, not for spectacle, but for honor. In the quiet moments between the notes of TAPS, in the prayerful silence, and in shared remembrance, we were reminded that the past still speaks and it is our responsibility to listen. Plans are underway to replace the broken stone thanks to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

May we continue to pause.

May we continue to honor.

And may we never forget.