BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- Wreaths Across America has been honoring our nation's heroes since 1992, by laying Christmas wreaths down at the headstones of veterans who have passed away. Wreaths are a way for us to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation about their sacrifice. In 2005, the practice went viral online, and nearly 20 years later it's a nationwide tradition that has now reached the city of Delano. A holiday so full of spirit and soul is undoubtedly a bit somber for the family members of veterans who are no longer with us, regardless of if they laid down their lives in combat or died long after their duty was fulfilled. Family members like Sally Medrano, who was a major contributor in setting up Delano's first Wreaths Across America, joining nearly 5,000 locations in all 50 states. Her father was a World War II Army veteran who recently passed at 102. "My dad is actually the oldest veteran buried here at this cemetery," said Medrano. "He's a big part of why I do what I do. I think it's important to honor our veterans whether they're here or passed on." Scattered across the plot of land at North Kern Cemetery are some our nation's greatest heroes. With help from volunteers around Delano, Wreaths Across America was able to lay down more than 400 wreaths, so that these hallowed souls that have passed on may, in a way, celebrate Christmas with their families once again. Dustin’s Diner serves up treats in the Haggin Oaks neighborhood Families like Raymond Montion's, whose father also served in World War II. Coming here to lay down a wreath at his father's headstone allows him to honor his father's service, and gives him the chance to share stories of his father with his children and grandchildren. "Honoring the greatest generation in America," said Montion. "Making sure that my children, my grandchildren understand the sacrifices that they made." As Montion mentions, teaching the kids about veteran sacrifice is an important task as well, showing them that freedom is not free. It's paid with the blood of heroes. "Just to teach the next generation that our veterans are important," said Medrano. "We get to have our freedoms because of them." For veteran families who have Christmas present ideas that will go unfulfilled, laying down these wreaths helps to keep their family's greatest heroes alive in their hearts. For veteran souls laid to rest here, whether a wreath is placed by family or by a stranger, it shows that soul the greatest gift they've given to all of us, is freedom. After all, what could be more important than honoring the spirits and souls of those who died to protect our freedom, so we can enjoy a peaceful Christmas this year and every year?