Friends of Lancaster Cemetery District


Wreaths Across America is proud to partner with nonprofits and veteran service organizations across the United States in supporting our nation’s heroes and thanking them for their service. Through our fundraising group efforts, WAA stimulates other charitable funds by returning $5 of every $15 wreath sponsorship raised. In doing so, we “do good twice,” recognizing the commitment made by VSOs and other nonprofits to support WAA by directly giving back to their missions in turn.

Dayle DeBry has been volunteering as Location Coordinator for the Lancaster Cemetery District of California since 2008. Her participation stems from a deep passion for Wreaths Across America and the mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach. Dayle also heads the Friends of the Lancaster Cemetery Fundraising Group, a $5 kickback group that is doubling down their efforts to support the Lancaster Cemetery District throughout the year.

The Friends of the Lancaster Cemetery Fundraising Group began as a means of supporting commemoratory projects throughout the Cemetery. From building memorials to outstanding acts of service to placing plaques honoring veterans lost in various conflicts, the group is committed to recognizing the service of local veterans.

A genealogist by trade, Dayle works to preserve the memory of those buried at the Cemetery. One of her biggest projects to date has been to verify the graves of veterans and community members buried with no headstone. Dayle continues to find ways to acknowledge the stories and legacies of these individuals within her community.

“It is exciting,” she noted, “to live through people’s lives through our genealogy work.” 

Dayle explained how each new discovery, every new project, each memorial built or placed is a special event. She encourages local community members to participate throughout the year, and certainly in December on Wreaths Across America Day.

“Wreaths Across America has really brought the community together,” she said.

Dayle DeBry and “Friends of the Lancaster Cemetery,” we thank you for all you do for Wreaths Across America and your community!


You can hear more of this story and from other Fundraising Groups throughout Giving in July on Wreaths Across America Radio