The Memorial Tree of Honor

A Legacy of Light

Honoring Those We Love. Remembering Those Who Served.

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This holiday season, House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat invites Veterans, military families, Gold Star families, first responders, and members of our community to gather for the inaugural lighting of the Memorial Tree of Honor.

Standing proudly inside the lodge, our beautifully illuminated Memorial Tree serves as a lasting tribute to the men and women who have served our nation and to the loved ones who continue to live in our hearts.

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Every light tells a story.

Every ornament honors a life.

Every Christmas, we remember.

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About the Memorial Tree

The Memorial Tree of Honor is a place of remembrance, gratitude, and hope.

Each ornament represents someone who has touched our lives.

We invite families to dedicate ornaments:

• In Memory of a Veteran

• In Honor of a Veteran

• Active Duty Service Members

• Gold Star Family Members

• Military Spouses

• First Responders

• Family Members

• Friends

• Anyone whose memory deserves to shine during the Christmas season

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As the years pass, the tree will continue to grow with the stories of thousands of families who choose to remember those they love.

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1st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join us as we officially light the Memorial Tree of Honor and begin what we hope becomes one of Maine's most meaningful Christmas traditions.

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Tentative Schedule

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Arrival and fellowship

11 a.m.  Welcome

11:10 Posting of the Colors

11:20 National Anthem
11:30 Reading of Memorial Names
11:45 Moment of Silence
12 pm Lighting of the Memorial Tree

12:15 p.m. Christmas Lunch, Music & Fellowship

 

 

Dedicate an Ornament

Honor someone special by placing their name on the Memorial Tree.

Each ornament becomes part of a tradition that will continue year after year.

You may dedicate an ornament to anyone:

❤️ In Memory Of

⭐ In Honor Of A Veteran

🎖 Active Duty

💙 Gold Star Family

🚓 First Responder

👨‍👩‍👧 All Loved Ones are welcome 

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Sponsor the Tree

Help us ensure that this tradition continues for generations.

Sponsorship opportunities include:

• Tree Lighting Sponsor $500

• Tree Sponsor - donate 20 foot artificial tree

• Ornament Sponsor 

• Memorial Candle Sponsor

• Dinner Sponsor

• Music Sponsor

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Sponsors will be recognized throughout the event and in annual promotional materials.

Volunteer Opportunities

There are many ways to help.

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Volunteers can assist with:

• Decorating the tree

• Greeting guests

• Serving dinner

• Ornament registration

• Photography

• Reading memorial names

• Children's activities

• Cleanup

• Event setup

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to attend?

No. The event is free. If you want to sponsor a bulb with a loved one, it's a $5 donation which goes towards providing FREE Veteran Retreats for healing and camaraderie.

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Do I have to be a Veteran?

Everyone is welcome.

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Can I dedicate more than one ornament?

Absolutely, as many as you like. 

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Can I bring my family?

Yes. We encourage families to attend together.

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Will there be food?

Yes. A FREE Christmas lunch will be available, followed by our 

annual Christmas Celebration. 

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Can I volunteer?

Yes! We'd love your help.

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Make a Donation

Every donation helps House in the Woods continue providing free retreats for Veterans and military families while supporting this meaningful holiday tradition.

Together, we can create a legacy that grows brighter every Christmas.​

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Throughout the holiday season, visitors can browse a gallery of those being honored. Details of where that will be, will be shared in the fall. ​​

 

Families who can't travel to Maine can still participate and feel connected to the tradition, making the Memorial Tree of Honor meaningful both in person and across the country.

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TOGETHER WE HEAL