Houston Community Honors Veterans at Woodlawn’s 'Little Arlington' with Wreaths and Remembrance
On December 13, 2025, more than 400 people gathered at Woodlawn Garden of Memories Cemetery, affectionately known as “Little Arlington,” to honor veterans as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. The ceremony united a diverse cross-section of the Houston community in a moving tribute to military service and sacrifice, with over 1,000 wreaths placed on veterans' graves.
Located in Houston’s Spring Branch area, Woodlawn Garden of Memories is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a symbolic resting place for many of the region’s veterans. Originally established in 1931 and evolving into a memorial park by 1940, the cemetery holds historical significance not just for its beautifully landscaped grounds and Rodriguez sculptures, but for its lasting role in community remembrance.
Leading the ceremony was Tom Jackson, a respected local leader, CPA, CFISD Trustee Emeritus, and President Emeritus of the Texas Society, Sons of the American Revolution (SAR). Jackson reminded the audience, “The freedoms we enjoy today have not come without a price... We thank those who gave their lives to keep us free and we shall not forget you. We shall remember."
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His remarks reflected on the historic roots of each military branch, noting the founding of the Army, Navy, and Marines in 1775.
Participants included a wide range of community groups and organizations. Among them were the VFW Post 8790 in Cypress, multiple chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), the SAR Robert Rankin Chapter, Kempner High School’s Air Force JROTC, local Scout Troops, Christ Presbyterian Church Choir, St. Basil the Great Greek Orthodox Church, and the Salvation Army Band under the direction of Captain Ian Carr.
Together, these groups contributed not just presence, but deep reverence and personal commitment to honoring the fallen.
A memorable part of the event came when Jerry Martin, a retired science educator, invited attendees to sign a symbolic blank copy of the Declaration of Independence. Over 100 children and adults stepped forward, pledging anew their dedication to the principles of liberty—a poignant reminder of what so many veterans gave their lives to protect.
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As each wreath was laid—accompanied by salutes, music, and personal reflection—participants were encouraged to say the veteran’s name aloud, ensuring their memory would live on. “Each wreath is a gift of appreciation from a grateful America,” said Chief Master Sergeant Lionel Jackson (ret.) of Kempner High School’s JROTC, emphasizing that the event was not to mourn death but to celebrate lives lived in service.
The 2025 Wreaths Across America ceremony at Woodlawn was a testament to unity, patriotism, and remembrance. For residents of Houston and surrounding communities searching for ways to honor military heroes, this annual gathering continues to offer a heartfelt, educational, and deeply meaningful opportunity to remember what freedom truly costs.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
