Lebanon’s All American Royal Queen lays wreath at Arlington National Cemetery

The reigning All American Royal Queen represented her Lebanon County hometown at Arlington National Cemetery this past weekend when she had the opportunity to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

“On Sunday, July 13th, I had the extraordinary honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery — one of the most sacred sites in our nation,” Deborah Hornick, who also works as community development director for the United Way of Lebanon County, wrote in a statement to LebTown.

“Representing Palmyra VFW Post 6417 and proudly serving as the 2025 All American Royal Queen, I stood in solemn tribute to the brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country,” she said in the release. “It was one of the most humbling and emotional experiences of my life.”

Hornick was crowned after representing Pennsylvania at an Oct. 12 pageant in Ocean City, Maryland.

Read More: Lebanon County resident crowned 2025 All American Royal Queen in Maryland

She lives in Lebanon with her husband Chris Hornick, a daughter, and two stepchildren. A singer, she is known locally for performing the National Anthem, Christmas carols, and Broadway classics at local events and nursing homes. She worked until January as director of Lebanon & Lancaster counties for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA, and she also volunteers with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, an organization based near Philadelphia that strives to end childhood cancer and supports children and their families who are undergoing treatment.

“The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is more than a monument — it is a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the heroes who gave their lives without recognition or name,” Hornick wrote in her statement. “Laying the wreath on behalf of our local veterans and community was a moment I will carry with me forever.”

The Palmyra VFW said in the release that Hornick “brought this opportunity to us, and we are grateful … for all you represent while you contribute to veterans and their causes.”

Hornick said she hopes to “inspire others — especially our youth — to recognize the value of patriotism, selflessness, and gratitude. To those who have served and those who continue to serve: we see you, we thank you, and we honor you.”