Honoring Service and Sacrifice: Texas Veterans Cemeteries Announce Holiday Wreath Laying Ceremonies

This holiday season, Texans are invited to pause, reflect, and honor the heroes who have worn our nation’s uniform. Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., has announced the 2025 Holiday Wreath Laying schedule at Texas State Veterans Cemeteries and is encouraging Texans from every corner of the state to take part in these moving tributes.

A Tradition of Remembrance

Each year, wreath-laying ceremonies take place at state veterans cemeteries as a way to honor servicemembers who are no longer with us. Families, veterans, volunteers, and community members gather to place wreaths at the grave sites of those who served — a simple act that carries deep significance during the holiday season.

Commissioner Buckingham emphasized the importance of the ceremonies as a moment for communities to come together in gratitude and remembrance. As Chairwoman of the VLB and the first woman elected to serve as Texas Land Commissioner, she has been steadfast in her efforts to support Texas veterans and ensure they receive the recognition and respect they deserve.

Ceremony Dates and Locations

Ceremonies will be held at four Texas State Veterans Cemeteries, with wreath placement to follow each service. All Texans are welcome to attend.

Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene
• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
• Ceremony: 11:00 a.m.
• Location: 7457 W. Lake Road, Abilene, TX 79601
• Sponsor a wreath: Wreaths Across America

Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery
• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
• Ceremony: 9:00 a.m.
• Location: 2520 South Inspiration Road, Mission, TX 78572
• Sponsor a wreath: Wreaths Across America

Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery
• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
• Ceremony: 11:00 a.m.
• Location: 9974 IH 37 Access Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78410

Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery
• Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
• Ceremony: 10:00 a.m.
• Location: 11463 Fort Hood Street, Killeen, TX 76542
• Volunteer Information: Key dates and volunteer opportunities available online

How Texans Can Participate

Supporters may attend in person, volunteer to assist with wreath distribution, or sponsor a wreath through Wreaths Across America where applicable. The ceremonies are free and open to the public, offering all Texans a chance to pay tribute and show appreciation for those who selflessly served.

Serving Texas Veterans

Commissioner Buckingham has prioritized veteran support as part of her leadership at the General Land Office and the Veterans Land Board. Since becoming the first woman elected as Texas Land Commissioner in 2022, she has focused on strengthening services for veterans, supporting Texas energy, preparing communities for disasters, and ensuring educational opportunities for Texas children.

In addition to championing veteran initiatives statewide, she has worked alongside veteran organizations and public officials to expand recognition and resources for veterans and their families. Recent efforts have included collaboration with veterans coalitions and engagement with federal officials visiting Texas veterans facilities.

A Meaningful Opportunity to Give Thanks

As the holiday season approaches, the wreath-laying ceremonies offer an opportunity to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow Texans in gratitude and remembrance. Whether attending in person or sponsoring a wreath, Texans are encouraged to help ensure that every veteran is remembered and honored.

For more information, volunteer details, and sponsorship opportunities, Texans may contact the Veterans Land Board or visit participating cemetery websites.