On Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, volunteers and Wreaths Across America laid more than 3,300 wreaths on the headstones of veterans at the Texas State Cemetery, honoring those who served.
The Ceremony
Hundreds of volunteers gathered to spread 3,300 wreaths on veteran headstones. The event took place at the Texas State Cemetery, with more than three thousand wreaths laid.
Remmer Machamer: A Young Fundraiser
“I feel like it’s only fair that we show just a part of what they did for us – show them honor for everything they did,” said 14‑year‑old Remmer Machamer, fundraiser for Wreaths Across America (WAA). He explained how a 2018 meeting revealed 300 missing wreaths, prompting him to go door to door and collect donations. This year, he raised over $18,000, allowing the cemetery to be funded. Since 2018, Remmer has raised over $120,000 for WAA at the Texas State Cemetery.
Gold Star Families Remember Loved Ones
Several gold‑star families attended the wreath‑laying ceremony, placing wreaths on their family members’ headstones. Co‑location coordinator Debra Coffey, a gold‑star daughter, shared her story: “My father was shot down in the Vietnam War April 7, 1966. He was an Air Force pilot … he was declared killed in action, non‑recovered,” said Coffey. Over 50 years, his remains were identified and, since 2017, he has been buried here. Coffey now spends Christmas with her dad.
Eco‑Friendly Wreath Recycling
Texas Disposal Systems (TDS) assisted in retrieving and recycling the wreaths each year after they had been laid out for two weeks. PR Manager Katy Fordyce explained the process: “We recycle the entire wreath – they’ll be composted, recycled, grinded up and reaped. The metal, the bows and the wreaths themselves,” said Fordyce. TDS has been involved for several years, emphasizing the importance of reusing valuable materials in a full‑circle process.
Wreaths Across America’s Year‑Long Mission
Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath‑laying ceremonies in December at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states. Each year, the organization carries out its mission of honoring fallen veterans through community involvement and environmental stewardship.
Key Takeaways
- Over 3,300 wreaths were laid at the Texas State Cemetery on Dec. 13, 2025.
- 14‑year‑old Remmer Machamer raised $18,000 this year and $120,000 overall for WAA.
- Gold‑star families, including Debra Coffey, honored loved ones and celebrated their memories.
- Texas Disposal Systems recycled every wreath, composting and reusing materials.
The ceremony highlighted the enduring gratitude for veterans and the community’s commitment to remembrance and sustainability.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
