Why Are Red Poppies Worn on Veterans Day?
On Veterans Day, you might notice some people wearing little red poppies. You might even see a veteran handing out little red poppies for people to wear.
Other People Are Reading
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Why Poppies?
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Poppies became the symbol to represent veterans because of the poem "In Flanders Fields," by the Canadian military physician Colonel John McCrae. In the poem, McCrae wrote of the poppies that bloomed in some of the most bloodied battlefields of Flanders during World War I.
Imagery of Red Poppies
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In the poem, McCrae wrote of the imagery of the bright red poppies, which had bloomed over the rows and rows of white crosses. His poem became a rallying cry for soldiers in WWI.
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Two Women
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Anna Guerin of France and Moina Michael of Georgia were very touched by McCrae's poem. As a result, they worked hard to sell artificial poppies and raise money for disabled veterans and their families.
It Becomes Official
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In 1922, the Veterans of Foreign Wars made the poppy the official memorial flower to represent United States veterans.
Red Poppies Today
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Red poppies are still worn on Veterans Day, and money is still collected to assist veterans returning from war and to aid their families. So, on the next Veteran's Day, don't forget to wear your red poppy in honor of all those who have served.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of jenny downing Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Beverly
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Comments
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I didn't see or hear one comment on the poppy this Veterans Day. Matter of fact, I spoke to people who didn't even know its significance. This is a tradition that we should keep alive.
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Thank you James. :-)
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In Flanders fields the poppies grow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place, and in the sky, The larks, still bravely singing, fly, Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the dead; short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe! To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high! If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. -- John McCrae Ypres, 1915
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Every year I try to find one of those little paper poppies and every year I fail. No matter where we stand politically, we should all honor our veterans. I am a liberal who hopes for peace and who is grateful for those who fought so we CAN have diversity of opinion. I am esepicially proud of my late father. I would prefer to wear a poppy in the spirit of remembrance, as intended by the original meaning of Armistice Day, rather than a flag pin on this particular day. Does anyone know where I can find some?
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Respect and Honor All Military Veterans.
