The New Melle VFW and VFW Auxiliary have proudly sponsored Wreaths Across America at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery since 2014.
Our mission has been to honor and remember as many heroes as possible by placing a remembrance wreath on each grave. The incredible support from families and friends of fallen heroes, along with local VFWs, American Legions, Marine Corps Leagues, and businesses, has enabled us to grow this initiative from 17 wreaths in 2014 to an impressive 496 this year. Additionally, we donated 1,100 wreaths to Jefferson Barracks.
In our first year, we had only five volunteers, but by 2025, that number had increased to 46. Financially, we began in 2014 with only $255. Thanks to our generous community, we raised an outstanding $14,844 in 2025.
The efforts of the New Melle VFW Auxiliary to honor those who served our country are both an honor and a privilege. With your continued support and contributions, we will expand this program even further. REMEMBER the Fallen…HONOR those who Serve… TEACH our children the value of Freedom.
Thank you for your support. It means a great deal to the veterans’ families we honor. - Dennis Kluge - New Melle VFW Auxiliary 5651.
Wreaths laid on the graves at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery thanks to Wreaths Across America donations and volunteers.
Volunteers from New Melle VFW and Auxiliary who placed wreaths on the graves of our nation's fallen heroes at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery. Pictured (L-R): Dennis Kluge, John Almeling, Dakota and Jed Lamping, Marla Lamping, Dave and Susan Farwig, Kirby and Pam Crossett, NBB and Jeff Blaske. 
It was a rainy day at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery as the volunteers placed wreaths this year. (L-R) Christopher Kluge, Dennis Kluge - Jed and Dakota Lamping, Dave Farwig, Amber and Mike Vossen.
Bryan and Finnegan Kluge placed a wreath at Vincent Kluge’s grave.