In a recent meeting of the Goldsboro City Council, community leaders gathered to discuss various initiatives, including a significant presentation by the Willowdale Preservation Society regarding the upcoming Wreaths Across America ceremony. The event, scheduled for December 15, 2024, aims to honor the approximately 800 Civil War veterans buried at Willowdale Cemetery.

Lisa Granberry Corbitt, president of the society, highlighted the organization's mission to preserve the cemetery and promote its historical significance. Over the past year, the society has made strides in cleaning headstones and researching the history of those interred. Their future goals include marking unmarked graves and applying for recognition as a historic site.

The Wreaths Across America initiative, a national nonprofit, seeks to remember fallen veterans and educate the public about the value of freedom. This year’s theme, \"Live with Purpose,\" encourages individuals to find meaning in their actions. Corbitt emphasized the need for community involvement, urging residents and local businesses to purchase wreaths and volunteer for the ceremony.

Mayor Gaylor is set to be one of the featured speakers at the event, which will also include participation from the Goldsboro High School Honor Guard and a potential flyover from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The society is actively seeking volunteers for various roles, including marking veterans' graves and assisting on the day of the ceremony.

The council expressed support for the initiative, with members encouraging outreach to state military officials to enhance the event's profile. The meeting underscored the community's commitment to honoring its veterans and preserving local history.