American Legion forgoes poppy fundraiser this year, donations still accepted online.

May 27, 2021

American Legion forgoes poppy fundraiser this year, donations still accepted online.

LUDINGTON — Usually, this time of year Ludington American Legion Auxiliary members are selling poppies around town to raise money for local veterans.  Like many events recently, this year will be an exception.

This weekend you can donate at the American Legion Post 76, 318 N. James St., Ludington, MI 49431, or online at https://www.alaunit76ludington.us. Donations will help local veterans and provide haircuts to veterans at area nursing homes.

Poppy History
After World War I, the poppy flourished in Europe. Scientists attributed the growth to soils in France and Belgium becoming enriched with lime from the rubble left by the war. From the dirt and mud grew a beautiful red poppy. The red poppy came to symbolize the blood shed during battle following the publication of the wartime poem “In Flanders Fields.” The poem was written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, M.D. while serving on the front lines.

On September 27, 1920, the poppy became the official flower of The American Legion family to memorialize the soldiers who fought and died during the war. In 1924, the distribution of poppies became a national program of The American Legion.

Led by the American Legion Auxiliary, each year members of The American Legion Family distribute poppies with a request that the person receiving the flower make a donation to support the future of veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with medical and financial needs.

Poppy Day is celebrated in countries around the world. The American Legion brought National Poppy Day to the United States by asking Congress to designate the Friday before Memorial Day, as National Poppy Day.

 

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