Over 100 years of National Poppy Pride

 

Every year across Canada, from the end of October and up to Remembrance Day on November 11, thousands of legion members come together and volunteer their time to distribute poppies. Monetary donations that are raised during The Poppy Campaign go towards veterans and their families in need. In 2014, 21,000,000 Canadians wore poppies, beaming a bright red visual pledge to never forget, and $17 million was raised for veterans and their families.

The history that led to Canada adopting the poppy as its Flower of Remembrance back on July 5, 1921, is quite interesting. It all began with Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae and his heartbreaking yet beautiful poem In Flanders Fields which he wrote in May 1915 following the death of a fellow soldier. The poem speaks of great loss and gives each reader a small glimpse into the soldiers who fought so hard and gave all they had for our freedoms. His poem would then inspire American teacher Moina Michael three years later, who upon reading the poem, decided to personally pledge to always wear a poppy as a sign of remembrance.  Two years after Moina’s pledge, a French woman, Madame Guerin, visited the United States and learned of the new custom. She brought it home with her and began selling handmade poppies to raise much-needed funds for children in war-torn areas. The following year saw Canada join the custom and over 100 years later it’s still going strong.

Whitecourt’s 721 Hawk squadron is out in full force, putting in many hours of their time to get a poppy in every resident’s hands. Cadets will be out at various locations throughout the community including the Midtown Mall (as pictured). Cadets Kjell Granley, Cadence Willsher, Kyle Westling, and Daniel Taylor are four of 21 who will be helping to provide poppies locally until Friday, November 11. They encourage everyone to get a poppy and to wear it with pride. Many other groups and citizens are also supporting the cause including Brownies and Sparks from Girl Guide Canada. Keep your eyes out for those who are volunteering their time!

The Royal Canadian Legion is Canada’s largest veteran support and community service organization. With more than 300,000 members in over 1,400 Branches across Canada, they do so much for veterans and their families. Formed in 1926, the member-based organization is always looking for more members to join, and the local Whitecourt branch is no different. They have open arms to anyone who is interested in becoming a member and you do not need to be a veteran. 2017 memberships are available, call 780-778-3666.

 

 

Whitecourt Remembrance Day celebrations will begin on Friday November 11th with a march from the downtown Legion to Central School around 10:30am followed by ceremonies at the school at 11am. Immediately after the wreath laying there will be a march from Central School, past the Cenotaph (Seniors Circle) and back to the Legion where there will be light fare. Everyone is encouraged to come take part and honour our local veterans. #OURDUTY