Cadets Demonstrate Dedication, Hypothermia During Wreaths Across America Observance
Each December, Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadets across the nation once again demonstrate their commitment to service by participating in Wreaths Across America (WAA), an annual event dedicated to honoring America’s veterans through the ceremonial placement of wreaths on gravesites.
Despite winter weather that many would reasonably describe as “objectively unpleasant,” Cadets arrive in uniform, stand in formation, and execute their duties with a seriousness that observers frequently describe as “impressive,” “solemn,” and “remarkably tolerant of the cold.”
“This is exactly the kind of experience that builds character,” said Lt Col Arnie Foglio, a prominent supporter of WAA. “Cadets learn respect, discipline, and perseverance. They understand that honoring veterans isn’t about comfort—it’s about commitment.”
Enduring the Elements, With Purpose
In many regions, WAA takes place in freezing temperatures, high winds, and snow. Cadets stand largely motionless for extended periods, an activity which senior leaders describe as “reflective” and Cadets describe as “very cold.”
“These young men and women could be anywhere else,” said one senior member. “Instead, they choose to be here, honoring those who served. That says a lot about their dedication.”
Others noted that the weather adds to the authenticity of the experience.
“There’s something powerful about watching Cadets tough it out,” Lt Col Foglio said. “They’re learning that service sometimes means discomfort.”
Not all members see this as an unqualified positive.
“I’m sure it’s character-building,” said one senior member who asked not to be named, citing a long history of being labeled ‘grumpy’. “I just didn’t realize hypothermia was now part of the Cadet Program.”
Despite careful preparation, at least one Cadet in new OCPs and $30 bargain-store boots was later treated for early symptoms consistent with trench foot. Senior members emphasized that the Cadet had followed all guidance and that the issue reflected the setting, not the Cadet. “This isn’t about the cheap boots,” said one senior member. “Even $300 Gucci boots and Crye Gen 10 OCPs wouldn’t have protected him. Physics beats honor every time.”
A Ceremony Rich in Symbolism
During the event, Cadets carefully place wreaths on headstones and render honors. The ceremony is visually striking, highly photogenic, and conducted with great seriousness—particularly given that the recipients of the honors are, by definition, unable to observe them.
“It looks very respectful,” said one senior member. “Everyone stands straight, salutes smartly, and nobody asks why we’re saluting decorative greenery attached to rocks.”
Supporters argue that the symbolism is what matters.
“The act itself is the lesson,” Lt Col Foglio explained. “It’s about remembrance.”
Critics remain unconvinced.
“I was in the military a long time,” another senior member said. “I’ve done funeral details, been to Arlington, too. I’ve never once been instructed to salute a headstone. But if we’re calling it tradition now, then I guess it’s settled.”
Fundraising With National Impact
Wreaths Across America is also a major fundraising effort, resulting in the sale of millions of wreaths nationwide. CAP units contribute significant manpower and organizational support to ensure successful execution.
According to supporters, the financial return is secondary to the mission.
“This isn’t about how much money CAP makes,” Lt Col Foglio said. “It’s about being part of something bigger.”
Some senior members quietly note that “something bigger” appears to be the wreath company.
“We move an incredible amount of product,” said one grumpy senior member. “And CAP gets… well, let’s call it a character-building amount of money.”
Another was more direct.
“If we put this much effort into literally any other fundraiser, we’d be flush,” he said. “Instead, we get the moral satisfaction of knowing we helped someone else have a very successful business year.”
Completing the Mission
Several weeks after the ceremony, units often return to remove wreaths once they have weathered and turned brown, an activity leaders describe as stewardship and respect.
“It shows follow-through,” Lt Col Foglio said. “We don’t just place wreaths and forget about them.”
Some senior members see the full lifecycle as instructive in its own way.
“We honor the dead by placing wreaths,” one said. “Then we honor them again by picking up dead wreaths. There’s a lesson in there somewhere. I’m sure of it.”
A Tradition That Continues
Despite occasional grumbling from what leadership sources describe as “the usual suspects,” Wreaths Across America remains a firmly established part of Civil Air Patrol’s annual calendar.
For Cadets, it is a visible demonstration of service, discipline, and resilience.
“It’s really important to honor veterans,” said Cadet Tina Jones, a member of the local Civil Air Patrol unit. “I just don’t understand why we can’t honor them in the summer.”
As one longtime CAP member summarized while watching Cadets stand quietly in the cold:
“They look squared away. They look serious. And they look absolutely freezing. Which, apparently, means ’honor’ or something.”
