Cindy and , Charles Ickes Jr. knelt together on a stormy winter evening and placed a flower next to their father’s dark tomb.
His mother slowly spoke:” Charles Ickes III,  , United States , Marine Corps, thank you for your service, friend”.
Ickes III, an Afghanistan War veteran, died at home on , Aug. 13, 2016, time 23.
On Saturday, he was one of 1, 000 soldiers honored during the first , Wreaths Across America , meeting previously 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 outside. They’re a small system. I believe he would enjoy the fact that this is happening for his brother defense personnel.
Cindy Ickes , and Cemetery Manager , Ginger Pollock , led the effort to hold the native function in conjunction with National Wreaths Across America Day when bouquets are placed on soldiers ‘ grave.
” Thank you so much to the Documentation for your tenacity”, Army Maj.  , Gen. Laura McHugh, from , Fort Indiantown Gap, said during a short statement. Charlie is undoubtedly smiling, proud of your work, and no doubt looking down on us.
This year, 4 909 participating spots placed more than 3 million bouquets.
” Currently we show a united front of gratitude and respect across , the United States of America , as we remember the fallen, respect those who serve and their communities, and train 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 , function.
” We just like to be involved in the community” , , Jeff Haynal, the troop’s assistant scoutmaster, said. We make sure the males are aware of the significance of the fallen. It’s a good thing to do before Christmas”.
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