Civil Air Patrol (CAP) cadets and senior members from the Pennsylvania Wing, including members of the Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304 in Lititz, participated in Wreaths Across America at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on Dec. 16.

The Jesse Jones Squadron 304 cadets participated in the Line of Patriots during the hourlong ceremony honoring veterans from each branch of service. Joining Squadron 304 cadets in the Line of Patriots were CAP cadets from the Reading, Harrisburg International, Quakertown, and Chester County squadrons. Cadets from the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps's Constellation Division located in Harrisburg and the Robert I Rudy Division located in Lebanon were also present in the Line of Patriots, which was led by veteran members of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Following the ceremony, CAP cadets and senior members assisted with laying wreaths at the graves of United States veterans. More than 2.7 million wreaths were laid countrywide at more than 3,700 different locations. Volunteers laid more than 42,000 wreaths at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

Wreaths Across America seeks to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families, and teach future generations about the price of freedom. The organization carries out its mission year-round. When volunteers lay wreaths, they are encouraged to say the veteran's name aloud, thank him or her for his or her service and sacrifice and take a moment to reflect on the person and his or her life.

Participating in Wreaths Across America is one of many services that Jesse Jones Squadron 304 provides to the community. Service to one's community, state and nation is a primary part of the cadet programs within CAP.

Jesse Jones Squadron 304 meets at 7 p.m. each Monday except holidays in the Venture Jets hangar, which is located at the Lancaster Airport near the intersection of Lititz Pike and Millport Road. Visitors are welcome.

The Civil Air Patrol is the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. To learn more about the local squadron, visit https://jessejones.cap.gov or search for "Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304" on Facebook.