Louisville, KY – For only the second time ever, every veteran’s grave at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery will be honored with a wreath for the holidays, thanks to broad support from the community. A final push over the last few days propelled the campaign to its goal. The fundraising campaign will continue throughout the day today to start building the fund for next year. In addition, volunteers will be needed to place the wreaths on December 13.

More than 11,400 Maine Balsam wreaths will arrive at the cemetery December 10th and will be placed December 13 following a noon ceremony at Zachary Taylor. Attendees will be asked to place wreaths on graves in remembrance of the sacrifices veterans have made. Throughout the country, similar ceremonies will take place at other national cemeteries as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. Brownsboro Hardware & Paint is one of several organizations in the community to raise funds to purchase the wreaths.

“We are thrilled that we have reached our goal, but we will continue to raise funds through the end of the day today to start preparations for next year,” said Dr. Scott Giltner, location coordinator, Gov. Isaac Shelby Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution. “This is a year-round effort, and our job is never finished. However, we are again astounded at the phenomenal community support this year and are so gratified by the kindness of others. The public is invited to come and assist with the wreath placements on December 13 at 12:00 noon.”

“I can’t thank our customers and friends enough for stepping up to help again this year,” said Doug Carroll, owner of Brownsboro Hardware & Paint. “Some 2,000 wreaths were purchased at our two stores alone, and we sponsored another 100. We had such strong support with people buying one, five, ten, or even 100 wreaths. We are blessed to live in such a caring community.”

“When a wreath is placed on Saturday, December 13, we ask that the person says the veteran’s name out loud,” said Susan Kalmey, co-location coordinator, Corn Island Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. “That way, that veteran is never forgotten. Many participants will bring their children to teach them about the contributions that our veterans have made for the betterment of our country.”

Wreaths Across America is a national organization which started in 2007. Its mission: Remember the fallen. Honor those that serve. And Teach the next generation about the value of freedom. The organization placed more than three million wreaths at more than 5,200 locations in 2024. For more information on the organization, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/KYZTNL .

Known for its product quality and tremendous service, Brownsboro Hardware & Paint recently celebrated its 65th anniversary. A national hardware magazine, HBS Dealer, awarded the store its “Superstar” recognition for being the top hardware store in Kentucky over the past decade. In addition, the Better Business Bureau has awarded Brownsboro Hardware & Paint the “Torch Award for Ethics,” and the Prospect Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized Brownsboro Hardware & Paint as “Best Employer.”

Brownsboro Hardware & Paint has two locations — 4858 Brownsboro Road in Louisville, and 9521 US 42 in Prospect. Visit Brownsborohardware.com for additional information.