cover story
I
t's all about the stories, from veterans who were laid to rest at
Arlington National Cemetery to landscapers and their families
who volunteered their time to renovate the grounds.
It's the stories of the children who have come for the past
decade and are now leading groups, those who have personal
ties to the military and others who can't imagine not coming
every year.
But the most important stories are the ones that have ended.
This day was about honoring the men and women who gave
their lives for this country.
Showing gratitude
More than 400 men, women and children from more than 30
states met in Arlington, Virginia, July 28 for PLANET's annual
Renewal & Remembrance event. Many brought equipment, lime,
tools and the spirit of service to the cemetery, which is having
its 150th anniversary.
During the opening ceremony, all of the speakers focused on
the importance of having an event to honor fallen soldiers.
"Some sacrificed all, and that's who we're here to give back to
today," says John McCutcheon, PLANET president. "It's an easy
decision for me to come back each year."
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All of the landscapers came together for inspirational speeches and to be reminded why
they were giving back before heading to their different sites.