Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider holds the wreath presented by the Seabrook Pathfinders.
This fall, several young Pathfinders from the Seabrook church (Lanham, Md.) had the privilege of presenting a handcrafted wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Arlington, Va.). “We had spent the afternoon at the National Cemetery several months before,” explains Donna Staten, a Pathfinder counselor, “and observed the wreath laying and changing of the guard ceremonies. I thought this would be a memorable event to help Pathfinders complete their Christian Citizenship honor, while showing support and patriotism to those who died for our freedom.”
While selecting the wreath, the group decided that making it themselves would be more meaningful than purchasing it from a florist.
The group went to work on their creation and watched several wreath ceremonies on YouTube to familiarize themselves with the process.
On the big day, Pathfinders arrived 45 minutes prior to their appointed time to be inspected and briefed by the guard. The group
Several Pathfinders from the Seabrook Church presented a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, this fall.
practiced and was ready for the task. “The boys thought it would be easy, but later confessed they were quite nervous,” says Staten. “They made us very proud. They were extremely reverent and respectful.”
Carla Benjamin, Seabrook’s Pathfinder director says, “In a society where we often expect privileges without responsibility, this event allowed us to pause and recognize others who have sacrificed their lives for our benefits.” The event also introduced spectators, from around the world, to the Seventh-day Adventist church, as many had questions about the Pathfinders’ uniforms.
