One flower has remained a constant symbol of death, life and remembrance since World War I. The red poppy was immortalized in the famous poem, “In Flanders Fields,” written by a Canadian officer, Col. John McCrae, a physician, who was inspired by the flower.
He noticed how the poppy can lay dormant in the soil for years, only to later reappear in great numbers.
Eventually, the red poppy was used as a symbol of remembrance by the British and Canadian troops, and as a fundraiser to help their disabled veterans.
The red poppy tradition eventually made its way to America where the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion have embraced the power of the flower to raise money to help veterans in need.
Today, the American Legion’s “Memorial Poppy” and the Veterans of Foreign Wars “Buddy Poppy” programs, with the help of volunteers, raises funds close to Memorial Day and Veterans Day and sometimes throughout the whole year.
The poppy serves to remind people of the past sacrifices and continuing needs of our veterans.
Throughout the United States, you will see American Legion and VFW members selling the famous red poppies in our community; please be generous and purchase many. You will be helping veterans in their attempt to live the peaceful life they so much deserve.
They, like the red poppy, have survived courageously through battle and disability, and despite the destruction of war, the renewal of life offers another chance for them.
A life that was given in service of their country should never be forgotten.
Purchase a red poppy when you can, remember our living veterans, our fallen veterans, from every war every day. Look for local VFW members selling poppies from noon-5 p.m. Sunday, May 29, at Forks Outfitters.
