Join us at Woodward Hill Cemetery for the Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony for President James Buchanan, the United States’ 15th President. Taking place in the week of Buchanan’s birthday, the ceremony features the laying of fresh flowers at the gravesite of the former president and remarks by the presiding officer of the Pennsylvania National Guard as well as local dignitaries.

On April 20, the ceremony and remarks will include the following individuals and groups:

• Brigadier General Mark A. Goodwill will present the ceremonial wreath at the gravesite of James Buchanan;
• The Lancaster Fencibles will fire a 21-gun salute;
• A member of Masonic Lodge No. 43, James Buchanan’s lodge, will make brief remarks;
• Boy Scout Troop 58 will conduct a pre-ceremony cleaning of the gravesite and plant new flowers as well as lead those assembled for the ceremony in the Pledge of Allegiance; and
• The Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard will present a new American Flag for the gravesite and play Taps on the bugle.

This event is free and open to the public. No reservations are required. For directions to the Cemetery, please click here.

Brig. Gen. Mark A. Goodwill is the Assistant Adjutant General – Air for the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. He serves as the primary assistant and advisor to the Deputy Adjutant General-Air on all matters pertaining to air operations of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. General Goodwill is a Master Navigator with other specialties in maintenance and logistics. He has flown combat missions in operations DESERT STORM, NORTHERN WATCH, and ALLIED FORCE. Prior to assuming his current position, General Goodwill served as the Chief of Staff of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap.