Poppy’s Crew Brings National Tribute Program to Rehoboth, MA
Rehoboth, MA — Wreaths Across America, a national nonprofit dedicated to remembering and honoring our nation’s veterans, has officially come to Rehoboth through the efforts of local volunteer sponsorship group, Poppy’s Crew. After a successful first year in 2024—with overwhelming support from the community—plans are already underway for this year’s wreath-laying event on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Rehoboth Village Cemetery.
Wreaths Across America’s mission is simple but powerful: Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. Each December, volunteers across the country place millions of balsam wreaths on veterans' graves to ensure no hero is forgotten.
Poppy’s Crew: A Local Effort with a National Impact
Poppy’s Crew was formed in 2024 by a small but passionate group of family and friends determined to bring Wreaths Across America to Rehoboth. The group was created in loving memory of our “Poppy,” Edward J. August—a proud U.S. Navy sailor—and “Nanny,” a devoted military spouse and true patriot. Together, they passed down a legacy of faith, service, community, and deep respect for our veterans. Both now rest at Rehoboth Village Cemetery, along with other beloved veterans in our family. That legacy continues to guide our mission. In our first year, we placed wreaths on every known veteran’s grave at the Village Cemetery—over 500 in total. Inspired by Poppy’s life of service and love for his country, we are committed to growing this tradition each year as a meaningful way to honor those who gave so much.
This year, the immediate goal is to sponsor and place a wreath on each of the approximately 570 veterans' graves at Rehoboth Village Cemetery. But the mission doesn’t stop there. In 2026, Poppy’s Crew aims to expand its reach to include additional Rehoboth cemeteries, with a special initiative to honor every known Revolutionary War veteran in the town for the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding.
DID YOU KNOW?
● For every $17 wreath sponsored, Poppy’s Crew receives $5 back to help cover local
expenses and support veterans in our community.
Last year, the group donated $250 each to the American Legion and Knights of
Columbus to aid their efforts supporting local veterans.
● You can sponsor a wreath for a specific veteran, and if you wish, you may lay the
wreath yourself during the event.
● Veterans resting in other Rehoboth cemeteries can also be honored—just let us know!
● You can schedule Poppy’s Crew to come to present at your event, gathering, meeting, or
business to share the mission and the ways your family, friends, group or employees can
participate.
Ways You Can Help:
● Sponsor a wreath for $17 to honor a veteran at Rehoboth Village Cemetery.
● Become a business sponsor for the event, or donate goods/services (printing,
cleanup, event materials).
● Help cover operating costs, including wreath disposal and print materials.
● Share our mission—talk to family and friends and encourage them to sponsor.
● Join Poppy’s Crew and help us raise awareness and funds throughout the year.
● Attend the Wreaths Across America Ceremony on December 13, 2025 at Rehoboth
Village Cemetery. The event is free and open to all.
Together, we can ensure that every local hero is remembered—not just this year, but for
generations to come.
To sponsor a wreath or learn more about becoming involved, please visit
www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/NH0043P or email waapoppyscrew@gmail.com.
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