Cindy and Charles Ickes Jr. knelt together on a blustery winter afternoon and placed a wreath next to their son’s black gravestone.
His mother quietly spoke: “Charles Ickes III, United States Marine Corps, thank you for your service, buddy.”
Ickes III, an Afghanistan War veteran, died at home on Aug. 13, 2016, age 23.
On Saturday, he was one of 1,000 veterans honored during the first Wreaths Across America ceremony ever held at Richland Cemetery.
“I think he’d be very happy to see this because the camaraderie they have,” Cindy Ickes said. “When Charlie was buried, his brothers and sisters in the Marine Corps came from everywhere. They’re a tight network. I think he’d be happy that this is happening for his fellow military (members).”
Cindy Ickes and Cemetery Manager Ginger Pollock led the effort to hold the local event in conjunction with National Wreaths Across America Day when wreaths are placed on veterans’ grave.
“Thank you so much to the Ickes for your tenacity,” Army Maj. Gen. Laura McHugh, from Fort Indiantown Gap, said during a brief speech. “I have no doubt that Charlie is looking down on us, and smiling and really proud of your efforts.”
More than 3 million wreaths were placed at 4,909 participating locations this year.
“Today we show a united front of gratitude and respect across the United States of America as we remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom,” Pollock said.
Fellow veterans, adults and children, including those from Boy Scouts of America Troop 2025, participated in the Richland event.
“We just like to be involved in the community,” Jeff Haynal, the troop’s assistant scoutmaster, said. “We try to make sure that the boys understand and recognize the importance of the fallen. It’s a good thing to do before Christmas.”
___
(c) 2024 The Tribune-Democrat
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.