Weakley County Patriot Tree to Honor Veterans

Since 2022 Wreaths Across America Location Coordinator for TNECMT, Linda Smith and American Legion Post 94 Commander, Sue Priest have placed a Christmas tree in the lobby of the Weakley County Courthouse.  The tree is referred to as the Patriot Tree. The purpose, according to Smith and Priest, is to remember and honor patriots, past and current. 

In 1894, Patriots’ Day, April 19, was established in Massachusetts to honor and commemorate early events of the American Revolution, specifically, the first battles of Lexington and Concord.   “Many states have acknowledged this day; however, the date varies from April 15 to whatever day the third Monday happens to fall,” noted Smith.  In 2008, an amendment to Tennessee code included the holiday and proclaimed April 19 as Patriots’ Day .  “Although neither a federal holiday nor a state holiday,” said Priest, ”we hoped to provide an opportunity for families within Weakley County to remember the service of our veterans.”

 Beginning April 11, 2025 through Memorial Day, Weakley County families have the opportunity to bring a photograph of any family veteran to the Weakley County Court house to place on the Patriots’ Day Tree.  A means to attach family photos will be already present on the Tree.  Photographs should be no more than 5 X 7 in size and the patriot’s name and other military information included, if possible.   “Photographs will not be returned,” stated Priest, “as we continue to compile a photo album of Weakley County patriots.”  Priest added that this information will be posted neat the tree in the courthouse. “The Tree will remain in the County Courthouse until Memorial Day, in order to provide an opportunity for residents to visit add photos.   Priest added, “This Information will be posted in the Courthouse near the Patriots’ Tree.”

The Patriot Tree Patriot fits with the threefold mission of WAA: Remember, Honor, and Teach.  For more information about WAA go to wreathsacrossamerica.org/TNECMT or contact lin_lees@hotmail.com or grmysue76@gmail.com .