Arlington National Cemetery is currently closed to the public, but that wasn’t going to stop the National Association of Landscape Professionals Renewal and Remembrance Committee from wanting to keep the tradition of honor and service alive on what would have been the 24th anniversary of the annual event.
Each year hundreds of landscape and lawn care professionals, their children, and industry companies donate their time, equipment, and supplies to help enhance Arlington National Cemetery. It is the most special and impactful event of the year for NALP members and their families, who participate in the children’s program.
This year, with support from our partners at Caterpillar, Exmark/ Z Turf Equipment, Gravely, John Deere, New Holland, SiteOne, and STIHL, we held and videotaped a small ceremony in Section 81 (the newest area of the cemetery) and added needed shade to the area by planting a Red Oak tree donated by Country Spring Wholesale Nursery.
NALP President Andrew Ziehler and ANC Superintendent Ray Alexander addressed the group, which included past Renewal & Remembrance chairs; Bruce Allentuck, Phil Fogarty, and Walter Wray; current Vice-Chair, Eric Gilbey; and current Chair, John Eggleston as well as NALP CEO Britt Wood and the horticulture team at Arlington National Cemetery who are longtime partners of this event. Watch the video.
Many thanks to ANC for letting us hold the small ceremony even though the grounds are closed to the public, and to our industry partners who not only provide financial support but also are deeply invested in the event – volunteering their time and equipment to help make the event a success and to help leave their mark alongside NALP members and their children.
View photos from this year’s ceremony.
It wasn’t the same this year – not even close – we miss all our 400 volunteers and look forward to seeing you on Monday, July 19, 2021, for the 25th year of Renewal & Remembrance.
