WASHINGTON, DC -- The United States Senate today unanimously passed a resolution, authored and introduced by Senators Olympia J. Snowe and Susan Collins, that designates Saturday, December 15th as "Wreaths Across America Day."

On that day, a convoy of Mainers is scheduled to arrive at Arlington National Cemetery to lay Maine-made balsam wreaths at the grave sites of our nation's fallen soldiers and veterans. The Patriot Guard Riders will continue their tradition of escorting tractor-trailers filled with donated wreaths from Harrington, Maine to Arlington National Cemetery. This is the 21th consecutive year that Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, will make this generous donation. In addition to Arlington National Cemetery, wreaths will be placed in veterans cemeteries around the country and the world. Last year, wreaths were placed in more than 700 locations.

"Wreaths Across America, true to the vision that Morrill and Karen Worcester conceived 21 years ago, has become a worldwide gesture of gratitude to our veterans and their loved ones. Because of the generosity of spirit and good will of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, this year an estimated 400,000 wreaths will be placed with solemn reverence at the base of the tombstones of veterans in all 50 states. Through this resolution, we humbly extend our appreciation to each of these patriots and join them in paying homage to our nation's heroes," said Senators Snowe and Collins in a joint statement. "In this season of giving, the thoughts of all Americans turn to those who have given us the most precious gift of all, our freedom."