Ohio Lawn Care Association and Project EverGreen Team Up to Honor Fallen Military Heroes

Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops is proud to partner with the Ohio Lawn Care Association (OLCA) for their 31st annual “A Grateful Embrace” event, a volunteer project aimed at supporting our nation’s military by maintaining the sacred grounds of Ohio’s National Cemeteries. The event will take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Dayton National Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio, and Ohio Western Reserve Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio.

This inspiring initiative involves fertilizing more than 180 acres of turfgrass in just one day, with the help of lawn care professionals and volunteers across the state. This year’s project continues the long-standing tradition of honoring the fallen by providing meticulous care to the cemeteries that hold their final resting places.

“After participating in A Grateful Embrace, you will never be the same again,” said Doug Hague, OLCA past president. “This unique opportunity to honor our nation’s heroes is one that resonates deeply with our volunteers, and we encourage anyone who has the ability to join us in giving back to those who gave all.”

Event Details

• Date: November 2, 2024
• Locations:
  • Dayton National Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio
  • Ohio Western Reserve Cemetery, Rittman, Ohio
• Arrival and Check-in: 8:45 a.m.
• Ceremony Start Time: 9 a.m. (Includes a benediction, color guard, and guest speakers)
• Volunteer Work Begins: Following the ceremony
• Event Conclusion: Approximately 12 p.m. followed by a catered lunch for all volunteers

The event, originally started more than 30 years ago by then OLCA President Doug Hague, continues to grow with support from numerous lawn care companies, industry suppliers, and more than 85 volunteers. These dedicated participants come together to spread fertilizer across all managed turfgrass areas, ensuring the grounds remain beautiful and well-maintained to honor the memory of the servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.

How to Participate: All lawn care and landscape professionals are invited to join in this meaningful effort. Volunteers are asked to bring spreaders, blowers, and as much manpower as possible.

Participants will receive a commemorative ball cap and volunteer decal in appreciation for their hard work.

Sponsors of the event include:

• Advanced Turf Solutions
• Turf Care Supply
• Morral Companies
• The Anderson’s
• Harrell’s
• SiteOne
• Ohio Turfgrass Foundation

The event promises to be a rewarding experience that leaves a lasting impact on both the volunteers and the sacred spaces they help preserve.

Register to volunteer.