One name after another, they were honored, remembered and thanked for their service. We're talking about veterans who risked or gave their lives for our right to celebrate independence.
"It gives me a sense of pride to be able to honor these people," U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Hope Funderburk said.
That sacrifice was honored by volunteers like Funderburk, who walked grave by grave, saluting.
"To me, it's the true spirit of patriotism. You have to remember your past in order to be able to progress into the future," she said.
The volunteers are part of a group called Wreaths Across America. Several times a year on significant dates, they gather at 800 locations across the country. The Houston National Cemetery is one of dozens in Texas.
Richard Queen walks the rows, marker after marker, despite painful rheumatoid arthritis.
"I figure that I can give as much as they can give," Queen said.
On a day when we recognize the birth of our nation, he says it's the least he can do.
"Just such pride in all these people that were willing to give their lives for our freedoms," Queen said.
Wreaths Across America is a national organization whose mission is to remember, honor and teach about the service and sacrifices of our veterans, active military and their families.
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