MISSION - A group of Rio Grande Valley volunteers are bringing Christmas cheer to families of fallen heroes this holiday season.

U.S. Army veteran Antonio Hernandez helped organize their 10th annual event at the Rio Grande Valley State Veteran’s Cemetery in Mission.

“A lot of brothers and sisters out here, so it’s something to give them for Christmas,” he said.

Hernandez said placing wreaths on cemeteries across the U.S. is done everywhere, and every year these events get bigger. This year the group of volunteers handed out 1,441 wreaths.

The veteran said it’s an emotional time for many families. Gabriel Salinas attended the event to pay respect to his father-in-law who served four tours in Vietnam. He said he was the second person buried at the Mission cemetery.

“It’s very nice to come out here on this beautiful day and see all the support that the community has for them,” he said.

Salinas said he and his family always looks forward to participate in the yearly event.

“It’s a really great thing that we can all come together as a nation, as a community and pretty much have the holiday spirit, and support our fallen heroes,” he said.

Organizers said preparations for the event starts on February. The annual tradition is funded by donations.