Veterans Day may have passed, but one of the Cape Fear’s most meaningful holiday traditions is just getting started. The Friends of the Battleship North Carolina have opened orders for their annual Wreaths of Honor program, which places evergreen wreaths on the historic battleship to honor veterans and active-duty service members through the holidays, WECT and WWAY reported on Nov. 11, 2026.
The deadline to order is Nov. 27, so if you want to honor someone in your family this year, now is the time. Here is how the program works.
How Wreaths of Honor Works
According to the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina:
- What you get: A 20-inch evergreen wreath decorated with a ribbon and a card bearing the honoree’s name and branch of service. WECT reports the card also includes years of service.
- Where it goes: The wreaths are attached to the lifelines along the battleship’s main deck and 01 level.
- When it is displayed: Wreaths go up on Dec. 7 and stay on display through the first week of January 2027.
- Cost: $40 per wreath.
- Deadline: Orders must be placed by Nov. 27.
- A keepsake: Purchasers receive a photograph of their wreath by email after it is placed. If you want to keep the wreath itself, you can pick it up after Jan. 1 at the battleship, 1 Battleship Road.
How to Order
Orders are placed online through the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina website. Before you start, gather the honoree’s full name, branch of service and years of service so the card is accurate. If you are honoring several family members, you can order more than one wreath. Because the Nov. 27 deadline falls on the day after Thanksgiving, consider ordering early rather than leaving it for a busy holiday week.
A Growing Tradition
WWAY reports that 2026 is the program’s fifth year, and last year’s effort led to 250 wreaths being displayed on the battleship during the holiday season. Proceeds support the Friends’ work to help fund programs, acquisitions and restoration of Battleship North Carolina.
The Dec. 7 placement date carries its own meaning. It is the anniversary of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, a fitting day to begin a display honoring generations of service members.
Ideas for Honoring Someone This Year
- A parent or grandparent who served. A wreath with their name and branch can be a powerful family tribute, especially for loved ones who have passed.
- A service member deployed over the holidays. Send them the emailed photo as a reminder that home is thinking of them.
- A neighbor or friend. Many Cape Fear communities, from Leland to Hampstead, are home to veterans and military families. A wreath is a thoughtful way to say thank you.
- Plan a visit. Seeing the wreaths in person on the battleship’s deck is a memorable holiday outing for families with visiting relatives.
Why the Battleship Matters to Local Homeowners
For residents of downtown Wilmington, Leland and Belville, Battleship North Carolina is part of the everyday landscape, visible across the Cape Fear River and woven into community events throughout the year. Traditions like Wreaths of Honor are part of what makes the area feel connected, and they are a big reason many veterans and military families choose to settle here.
If you are a veteran thinking about buying in the region, our VA home loan guide for Cape Fear buyers explains how the benefit works, and our post on property tax relief for Brunswick County seniors and veterans covers programs that may lower your bill. Exploring the riverfront? See our guides to living in downtown Wilmington and living in Belville.
FAQ: Battleship North Carolina Wreaths of Honor
How much does a Wreath of Honor cost?
Each wreath is $40, ordered through the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina.
What is the deadline to order?
Orders must be placed by Nov. 27, 2026.
When will the wreaths be on display?
From Dec. 7 through the first week of January 2027.
Can I keep my wreath?
Yes. Wreaths can be picked up at the battleship after Jan. 1. Every purchaser also receives an emailed photo of their wreath on display.
Where does the money go?
Proceeds help fund programs, acquisitions and restoration of Battleship North Carolina.
Honoring Those Who Serve, at Home and Beyond
We are grateful to the veterans and military families who make the Cape Fear region home. If you are planning a move, a PCS or a fresh start after service, Aspyre Collective is here to help you find the right place.
