"The Colonel" Tom Mortenson to head Wreaths Across America event at MN State Capitol

"The Colonel" Tom Mortenson, Ph.D., Becker County Administrator and community leader will host efforts to include the Minnesota State Capital in the National Wreaths Across America State House activities held around the Nation and in Washington, D.C.

"This year Wreaths Across America in Minnesota will Honor Veterans and Their Families
at a State Capitol Ceremony" Mortenson said.

Mortenson went on to add: "What is planned is a nonpolitical Statehouse Ceremony, Wreaths Across America with volunteers from across Minnesota working in unity with officials, dignitaries, and special guests, will honor our nations’ veterans, active military, and their families. This marks the 1st time Minnesota will participate in this Nation-wide event held in most state capitols and in Washington, D.C."

A 36” live, balsam wreath with flags representing each branch of the military, and a POW/MIA flag will be put on display during the ceremony in the Rotunda. The wreath represents each branch of the armed forces and honors the sacrifices of our nation’s military while celebrating their love of country, community, and family.

According to Mortenson, "Ceremonies like this will take place the same day in each state across the country, marking the beginning of local efforts to place veterans’ wreaths at the headstones of fallen service members in Minnesota on National Wreaths Across America Day.

The event is scheduled for December 08, 2025, with the ceremony beginning at 1:30 P.M. at the State Capitol – Rotunda

The Governor or his representative has been invited together with veteran groups and volunteers who help place wreaths on National Wreaths Across America Day. Mortenson, who was one of eight planners who drafted the military response following 9-11 will be the emcee, the official host of a ceremony.

The event is free and is open to the public.