In the spring of 1919, red poppies bloomed in abundance in the battlefields of France where so many American soldiers had fallen in battle. In remembrance of those lost, the American Legion adopted the poppy as its memorial flower in 1920. The American Legion Auxiliary created a national poppy program in 1924, distributing the poppies to pay tribute to the lives lost in all wars and to honor our living veterans.
In the month of May, American Legion Post 413 Auxiliary members will have poppies available throughout the community. Look for the cheery memorial flowers and donation cans at various businesses. Or, ask an auxiliary member for one. They will happily accept a donation in exchange for the flowers.
The Legion Auxiliary uses the money raised for a variety of things—cards to veterans who are ill, holiday gifts for veterans and to assist the American Legion with upkeep of veterans’ graves.
If you would like more information about the poppy program, contact Rhonda Silence at (218) 387-9844. If you would like information on becoming a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, contact Billi Carlson at billicarlson@gmail.com or (218) 387-1229.
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