Deceased veterans were honored and remembered during the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony held at Sunrise Cemetery in Pickens on Saturday, December 13, 2025. The Pickens Police Department organized the event, which began at 9:30 a.m. at the city-owned cemetery, located on East Cedar Rock Street.

Following “America” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” (the national anthem) by the Pickens High School Ensemble, led by Steve Raines, USMC, the ceremony was called to order by Pickens Police Chief Randal Beach, Third Battalion Fourth Marines Association, who delivered the invocation. The Pickens High School Ensemble then played a medley of anthems from each branch of service.  

Chief Beach then read from scripture, I Chronicles and the book of Ruth, and read the names of the veterans buried in Sunrise Cemetery.

The Pickens Police Department Veteran Honor Guard then rendered salute and honors.

The Pickens High School Ensemble then played “Eternal Father Strong to Save.”

Major Quincy Newman, USMC, escorted by the 4^th Degree Knights of Columbus and the Marine Corps League, placed the first wreath.

Following the playing of “Taps”, those in attendance placed wreaths upon the veterans’ graves, which were marked by American flag.

A POW/MIA table symbolized the thousands who are still missing.

Below, listen to audio of the ceremony, and view 30 photos.