The Powerful Ways Occoneechee Scouts Remembered Our Military

Occoneechee Scouts gathered this weekend to honor those who never made it home with Wreaths Across America. These moments of remembrance show that living the Scout Oath and Law includes how we say “thank you” to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Troop 320 in Garner

In Garner, Troop 320 took part in a cherished local tradition of honoring those who never returned home, joined by a lone Scouter from Troop 253. A wreath was laid for each branch of the U.S. military, and Gold Stars were placed on the remembrance tree to honor families who have lost loved ones in service to our nation. Garner has lost 67 sons in combat, along with 17 additional service members who died while stationed in or connected to the community, and the ceremony ensured their sacrifices were not forgotten.

Troop 365 in Knightdale

​Scouts from Troop 365 gathered at the Veterans Memorial in Knightdale Station Park to lay wreaths in honor of local veterans. Each wreath placed was a visible sign of gratitude, as Scouts paused to reflect on the sacrifices behind every name engraved in stone. Families and community members joined them in a calm, respectful ceremony that reminded everyone that freedom comes at a cost.

Troop 701B in Hope Mills

Troop 701B placed wreaths in Hope Mills, North Carolina, a nationwide effort to honor veterans. Scouts walked among the headstones, carefully placing wreaths and reflecting on the lives of the service members buried there. For many youth and families, the experience connected history, service, and gratitude in a deeply personal way.​

Troops 210 & 213 in Cary

Troop 210 and Troop 213 spent the day learning through service at Hillcrest Cemetery as they participated in activities to honor veterans and military families. By taking part in local remembrance efforts, Scouts gained a clearer understanding of what it means to serve—and to support those who have sacrificed. That combination of education and action helped turn a single Saturday into something that will stay with them far beyond one event.

Troop 500 in Raleigh

Troop 500 joined the movement at the Raleigh National Cemetery along with about 900 people, placing wreaths to honor veterans at rest. Their participation added to the nationwide wave of remembrance, as Scouts carefully laid each wreath while reflecting on the service and sacrifice of those commemorated. This hands-on service project embodied Scouting’s commitment to duty and reverence.​

Troop 619 in Raleigh

Troop 619 took part in the ceremony at Raleigh National Cemetery. Surrounded by rows of white headstones, Scouts respectfully placed wreaths and paused to reflect on the lives and stories represented there, adding their voices and actions to a powerful moment of national remembrance.

Pack 352 and Troop 352 in Durham

Pack 352 and Troop 352 participated at Maplewood Cemetery in Durham. Side by side, Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA helped place wreaths to honor veterans, turning the historic cemetery into a living lesson about service, sacrifice, and remembrance for youth and families alike.

Occoneechee Council’s Gratitude

Occoneechee Council is proud of the many units who chose to spend their weekend honoring the men and women of our armed forces. These Scouts showed that duty to country is lived out not only on campouts and service projects, but also in how we remember and recognize the people who stood in harm’s way for our freedoms. Their actions reflect the heart of Scouting: service, respect, and a deep sense of responsibility to community and nation.