On July 15, 2019, the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) organized the 23rd annual Renewal & Remembrance event at Arlington National Cemetery. 400 groundskeeping and lawn-care professionals from 28 states across the United States participated in the gathering, which remains the largest annual day of service for the cemetery’s green spaces.
The program featured grounds improvement and maintenance tasks, including the application of 60 tons of limestone to turf and the aeration of 85 acres of turf grass. These efforts were intended to enhance the appearance of the grounds and to create a dignified setting for the nation’s fallen heroes.
Renewal & Remembrance Projects
Other work completed during the day included inspection and repair of irrigation systems, planting of native species to curb erosion, and the installation of lightning-protection devices on trees. Volunteers also tended to pavers and carried out restoration of flagstones throughout the site.
The event incorporated an annual children’s program, where youngsters aged 3 to 13 and their families planted flowers while learning about the history of Arlington National Cemetery. Because the cemetery is an accredited Level III Arboretum, the activity was designed to honor America’s veterans and their relatives.
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Industry Involvement
The gathering highlighted the sector’s dedication to service and its respect for veterans who sacrificed for the country’s freedom.
The association represents a field that employs nearly 1 million lawn-care, irrigation, tree-care, and groundskeeping professionals. It works with lawmakers and the public to protect and expand the trade, offering education, networking, training, and certification programs that raise standards and inspire excellence.
Veteran Participation and Collaborative Learning
Participants addressed more than 200 acres of Arlington National Cemetery and also performed environment and lawn-care tasks at Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery. Their efforts were directed toward completing extensive maintenance activities with careful attention to detail.
Event Details
The Renewal & Remembrance program began at 7:30 a.m. with an opening ceremony that featured keynote speeches and a dedication of the day’s work at the newly restored James Tanner Amphitheater. A special wreath-laying ceremony performed by children of selected volunteers took place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that same morning.
