National Poppy Day to be celebrated
Honor fallen warriors and contribute to the continuing needs of veterans on National Poppy Day, which is May 28. The local American Legion Auxiliary 549 will honor them all weekend long.
The Flanders Fields poppy has become an internationally known and recognized symbol of the lives sacrificed in war and the hope none died in vain.
The American Legion family called upon Congress to proclaim the Friday before Memorial Day as National Poppy Day, which was officially designated as such in 2017.
Wearing the poppy on National Poppy Day and throughout Memorial Day weekend is one small way to honor and remember fallen warriors who willingly served their nation and made the ultimate sacrifice.
The poppy also honors hospitalized and disabled veterans who handcraft many of the red crepe paper flowers. Making the poppies provides a financial and therapeutic benefit to the veterans, as well as a benefit to thousands of other veterans.
When the American Legion family adopted the poppy as its memorial flower in the early 1920s, the red icon became an enduring symbol of honor.
The American Legion Auxiliary raises about $4 million each year distributing poppies throughout the nation, with 100% of the funds raised going directly to help veterans, military and their families.
The American Legion Auxiliary is a community of volunteers serving veterans, military and their families. Members also support the mission of The American Legion in improving the quality of life for the nation’s veterans.
The Weimer/Widder American Legion Auxiliary 549 members will be set up on May 29, 30 and 31 during different times of the day at Belloni Foods in Brewster and Dollar General near Beach City. Poppy containers will be located at businesses throughout Beach City, Brewster and Wilmot.
The Weimer/Widder American Legion will have a parade on Monday, May 31 at 10 a.m., starting at the park heading down Main Street and ending at the cemetery for a memorial ceremony.