2021 Gerald R. Ford Annual Wreath Laying

Wednesday, July 14, 2021
6:30 PM 7:30 PM

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On Wednesday, July 14, 2021, the annual Wreath Laying Ceremony was held at the burial site of the late President Gerald R. Ford, marking the 108th anniversary of his birth. The burial site is adjacent to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. In accord with tradition, a wreath was provided by President Joe Biden and placed before the tomb by Michigan National Guard Brig. General Paul Rogers and Captain Steven Babbitt.

A second wreath was presented on behalf of the Ford family by two nieces, Martha Postma and Linda Burba, and two nephews, Greg Ford and Bob Ford. The ceremony included a 38-second moment of silence in honor of the 38th president.

In addition, a floral arrangement was presented in honor of Betty Ford and placed before her tomb by the nieces and nephews.

Donald Rumsfeld, who passed away on June 29, 2021, was also honored in the ceremony. Gleaves Whitney, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Executive Director, presented a USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) cap to Captain Babbitt who placed it between the wreaths. The cap was a gift from Secretary Rumsfeld to President Ford, who served as the second Secretary of Defense for President Ford from 1975-1977.