The Poppy Campaign

Oct 01, 2014

By Connie McLellan

Every year from the last Friday in October to Remembrance Day on November 11, the Legion conducts the “Poppy Campaign”. Canadians have donated money to support the services we provide and to clearly show their recognition of the debt owed to so many Canadians who gave their lives for our freedom.

In Canada, the Poppy has stood as a visual symbol of our Remembrance since 1921. The reason for its adoption was due, in no small part, to Lieutenant-Colonel John McRae and his famous poem “In Flanders Fields”, written in May 1915. The Poppy was officially adopted by the Great War Veterans’ Association as its “Flower of Remembrance” on July 5, 1921. The poppies were first made in 1922 by disabled veterans and the work provided a small source of income for them and their families.

Each November poppies blossom on the lapels and collars of over half of Canada’s entire population and this single act ensures that our memories of those who died in battle will remain strong. The Poppy stands as our visual pledge to “Never Forget” those Canadians who have fallen in war and military operations and it forges a bond between people of all ages, not only within Canada but around the world. Donations to the Poppy Campaign raise more than $14 million for the support of veterans and their families. During the campaign some 18 million poppies and 70,000 wreaths, crosses and sprays are distributed across Canada and overseas annually.

So come this November, when you see one of our many Legion volunteers out there no matter what the weather, wearing a poppy, please give generously. Always remember those who have gone before and are responsible for the freedom we now share. “Lest we Forget”

(Information from the Royal Canadian Legion website)