Knoxville (WVLT) -- It began 15 years ago when a New England wreath maker visited Arlington National Cemetery across the Potomac River from Washington DC.

That’s when he decided he wanted to put a wreath on each tombstone.

On Saturday, the idea was celebrated with 260 wreath laying ceremonies at veterans cemeteries around the nation.

Wreaths Across America was held at two local cemeteries, East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery and Knoxville National Cemetery.

It was the second year for the local versions which were organized by the Patriot Guard Riders.

Many of those who participated did it for friends and family, all of which served in our nations armed forces.

"He's my own little hero,” said Deb McKay who helped organize the event and whose father was in the military. “He's a three war veteran and he never got a scratch, not a Purple Heart. He spent 26 years in the Army and as a kid I followed him around. I watched him go to Vietnam twice."

WVLT’s Alan Williams was the event's emcee.

It included a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps.