—A Blessing Beyond Words—
Honoring Our Heroes at Wreaths Across America Cleanup:
On January 17th, 2026, Sergeant Suds Laundry Powder had the honor of volunteering at the Great Lakes National Cemetery for the Wreaths Across America wreath cleanup event—and it’s a day that will stay with my heart for a very long time.
Walking through the cemetery that morning, surrounded by rows upon rows of headstones, each one representing a life of service and sacrifice, was humbling beyond words. The holiday wreaths, placed with such care and respect weeks earlier, were being gently removed—each one handled with intention, gratitude, and reverence.
Volunteering for this event wasn’t just something to do… it was truly a blessing.
As a Veteran-owned business, Sergeant Suds was built on a foundation of service, gratitude, and giving back. My husband and I have served our country together for decades, and events like this remind us why service never truly ends—it simply changes form. Standing alongside fellow volunteers, Veterans, families, and community members, there was an unspoken understanding: we were there to honor those who can no longer speak for themselves.
Every wreath picked up felt like a quiet “thank you.”
Thank you for your courage.
Thank you for your sacrifice.
Thank you for the freedoms we often take for granted.
The Great Lakes National Cemetery is a sacred place. The stillness, the crisp winter air, and the shared respect among volunteers made the experience deeply moving. There was no rush—only care. No noise—only reflection. It was a powerful reminder that remembrance doesn’t end when the holidays are over.
At Sergeant Suds, giving back to Veterans isn’t a marketing message—it’s who we are. From donating a portion of every sale to supporting Veteran causes, to physically showing up and serving when we can, this is our mission in action.
If you ever have the opportunity to volunteer for a Wreaths Across America event—whether laying wreaths or helping with cleanup—I encourage you to do it. You’ll leave with a full heart, a renewed sense of gratitude, and the quiet knowledge that you helped honor someone who gave everything.
From our family to yours, and from Sergeant Suds to every hero laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery: we remember you, we honor you, and we thank you.
Let’s Support Veterans.
Let’s Strengthen Our Community.
Let’s Keep It Local.
Helen Rusaw ~ Female Veteran Owner
248-807-8273 ~ Holly, Michigan
#StrongerTogether
#SupportingOurVeteransTogether
