1,200 Newcastle, Gold Hill, Ophir veterans honored in wreath ceremony

Braving the weather last Saturday on National Wreaths Across America Day, local residents came out to honor the 1,200 veterans buried in the Newcastle, Gold Hill and Ophir cemeteries during a brief ceremony and laying of wreaths. It was standing room only as a crowd of about 120 avoided the weather in the pavilion at Newcastle Cemetery. The event began with a welcome from master of ceremonies Bonnie Potter (RADM, MC, USN (ret.)), the posting of the colors by the Loomis American Legion and Girl Scout Kaia Drost leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Air Force Veteran Janae' Noble sang the National Anthem in addition to laying the Air Force ceremonial wreath. Other wreaths were laid by veterans John Green, Army; Dave Mackenroth, Marine Corps; Donald Peek, Navy; Richard Celia, Coast Guard; Larry Starn, Merchant Marine; and Annie McNally, Space Force. Retiring Placer County Supervisor Jim Holmes was the speaker and laid the POW/MIA wreath. The Auburn Area Honor Guard, led by Comdr. Sgt. Maj (ret.) Terry Crouson, rendered honors (a gun salute), and "Taps" was played by Jerry Ding of the Loomis American Legion Post. Pastor Steven Becker of Loomis' Regency Baptist Church offered the invocation and benediction, and bagpiper Chuck Jamison played "Amazing Grace." Members of the Scouts, church youth groups, Placer Pageantry, cemetery staff, families and individuals helped to honor the local heroes buried at Newcastle, Gold Hill and Ophir cemeteries by laying wreaths despite the inclement weather. Donations are sought year-round to fund this event. Until Jan. 17, 2025, Wreaths Across America will match all donations, offering a 2-for-1 wreath deal. Those interested in helping can visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org and support Newcastle Cemetery, sponsorship code CA0708, or contact your local coordinator, joanneenglish59@gmail.com.