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Wearing a red poppy to honor our military

For more than a century, the red poppy has been recognized as a symbol to honor our nation’s military.

The American Legion Family asked Congress to designate the Friday before Memorial Day as National Poppy Day. The wartime veterans service organization supports veterans, active duty servicemembers and their families.

“Historically the poppy symbolizes the blood shed for those who fought and continue to fight for our country. Personally, to me, the poppy means hope. Hope that there is a future, and that the ones that died did not do so for no reason in vain, it’s just such a simple reminder of the sacrifices made,” said Kathy Daudistel, the National Vice President of the American Legion.

Every year, the American Legion helps distribute red poppies to the community and encourages people to wear a poppy to honor our fallen and support the living heroes. They accept donations for the poppies to help fund their veteran focused programs.

“By wearing a red poppy, you are showing honor to those who served and died for our country and all wars. It just seemed to make to make sense to have a designated day for everyone to come together for a common cause and what a better way to start off Memorial Day weekend,” said Daudistel.

This year, National Poppy Day is on May 28th. If you want information on how to support National Poppy Day visit: https://www.legion.org/poppyday