Published by: American Legion
Author: By Jeric Wilhelmsen
December 16, 2025
As part of the National Wreaths Across America celebration on Saturday, Dec. 13, American Legion Post 642 in Cupertino, Calif., sponsored a wreath-laying ceremony at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in Los Altos for the 10th consecutive year.
In his 10th and final year organizing the event, Post 642 member Dennis “The Menace” Whittaker – who once served as a combat infantry platoon leader in Vietnam – coordinated efforts between the post, city officials and local Scouting units to place more than 1,100 wreaths. Whittaker emphasized the importance of remembrance and education, stating, “We need to honor and teach why we are here today.” District 13 Commander Richard Peralez of American Legion Post 419 in Santa Clara also participated in the ceremony, joining volunteers in laying wreaths to honor the fallen.
Post 642 Adjutant Arturo Thiele-Sardiña served as master of ceremonies and reflected on how Cupertino’s demographics have changed significantly over the past 20 years. What was once farmland and orchards has been overtaken by Silicon Valley, bringing a shift in the local population. “For us, it’s important that people see there are veterans here, and that we are here to support the community,” he said. The post uses this annual ceremony as one way to give back, supporting organizations such as Fisher House, the Veterans Home of Yountville, California, Boys & Girls State, and Paws for Purple Hearts.
Post 642 Commander Vincent Guinnane provided bagpipe music for the ceremony, while guest speakers included Maj. Gen. Michael Dougherty of the 80th Training Command and Command Sgt. Maj. George Luedtke of the 79th Theater Sustainment Command.
Gate of Heaven and Calvary Cemeteries are both included in the pilgrimage sites! Visit any of the following 10 pilgrimage sites within our Diocese for the Year of Saint Joséph through December 8, 2021. This act of faith, made during the Year of St. Joséph, will gain a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions (sacramental confession, Eucharistic Communion, and prayer according to the intentions of the Holy Father) to the faithful with a spirit detached from any sin. For more information on the Year of St. Joséph in our diocese:
