Sarasota Military Academy (SMA), a local public charter school, recently announced the 2018 SMA Wreaths Across America Campaign through a partnership with Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit that aims to remember fallen U.S. veterans, honor those who serve and teach children the value of freedom.
“In 2009, Sarasota Military Academy staff, cadets and families introduced the Wreaths Across America campaign to our community, and we are incredibly proud to continue this tradition at the Sarasota National Cemetery,” said SMA-MAJ C.J. Bannister, Sarasota Military Academy Foundation, Inc. Chief Development Officer. “As a veteran, the mom of a cadet attending SMA, and a proud supporter of this event, it’s incredible to see the involvement and passion of the cadets throughout this campaign. This partnership is ideal as the mission of Wreaths Across America perfectly aligns with the mission at SMA, and it is an incredible learning experience for all involved.”
During the annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Sarasota National Cemetery, SMA cadets and community members participate in honoring veterans and remembering their sacrifices and service. Through partnerships with other schools and organizations throughout Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties, this campaign has been led by SMA cadets, staff and their families since the Sarasota National Cemetery opened in 2009.
“There are approximately 13,000 gravesites at the Sarasota National Cemetery and we are proud to be involved in this annual campaign to cover as many gravesites as possible,” said SMA Colonel Christina Bowman, Sarasota Military Academy Executive Director of Schools. “When you sponsor a wreath, not only are you helping us honor our local resting veterans while teaching our cadets about those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country, you are also supporting SMA and our cadets and staff.”
The annual campaign yields back five dollars to SMA for each wreath sponsored, and fundraising dollars support cadet extra-curricular activities for both Academy middle school (Prep) and high school cadets. Sponsorships and donations will be accepted until Tuesday, November 20, 2018 and the 2018 Wreaths Across America Ceremony will take place on December 15, 2018.
To donate to the 2018 SMA Wreaths Across America Campaign, or to learn more about SMA’s involvement in this organization, visit http://www.sarasotamilitaryacademy.org/support-sma/wreaths-across-america.
About Sarasota Military Academy
Founded in 2002, Sarasota Military Academy (SMA) is a public charter school and college preparatory academy with two campuses located in Sarasota, Florida. Combining extraordinary academics with the highest military principles of camaraderie, focus, leadership, integrity, compassion, poise, honor and respect, SMA’s mission is to graduate young men and women who will confidently define their personal and unique goals for success in a multi-cultural and globalized world. Sarasota Military Academy High School is located at 801 N. Orange Avenue and Sarasota Military Academy Prep Middle School, is located at 3101 Bethel Lane. To learn more about SMA, visit http://www.sarasotamilitaryacademy.org/.