Opinion: Remembering the fallen through the symbol of the Red Poppy
Andi Schwartz, webmaster and designer
Clark County Today
As president of American Legion Auxiliary Tum Tum Unit 168, I hold a special place in my heart for the parents, siblings, spouses, children, and friends of those who served. As Memorial Day approaches, I can’t help but think of the men and women who went to serve this great nation and did not return home.
While many of us are guilty of treating Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer, it is important to remember the true reason for the holiday. Memorial Day is the day Americans set aside to honor the brave men and women who died while defending our freedom. It is our duty to remember their sacrifice, pray for their families, and bow our heads in recognition of their service.
On National Poppy Day®, Friday, May 22, American Legion Auxiliary Tum Tum Unit 168 will hold an outreach at Yacolt Trading Post, located at 315 N Amboy Ave, Yacolt, WA 98675. We invite North County residents to stop by between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to learn more about the meaning of the red poppy, Memorial Day, and the American Legion Family in Amboy. We will have a limited supply of poppies available, along with other patriotic and poppy-related items, as a tribute to our fallen warriors.
The red poppy, which bloomed on the battlefields of France after World War I, has become an internationally recognized symbol of remembrance for lives sacrificed in war and the hope that none died in vain. Donations received through the American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program are used to support veterans, military members, and their families.
To learn more about National Poppy Day®, the meaning of the poppy, and the four parts of our American Legion Family in Amboy, visit https://amboytumtumpost168.org/poppy-day/.
The American Legion Auxiliary, founded in 1919, is a community of volunteers serving veterans, military members, and their families. ALA members assist veterans, advocate for veteran issues, distribute poppies for remembrance, support patriotic education, and mentor future leaders through programs such as ALA Girls State and ALA Girls Nation.
This Memorial Day, may we do more than enjoy a long weekend. May we remember why we have one.
We must never forget.
Andi Schwartz is president of American Legion Auxiliary Tum Tum Unit 168 and [email protected]
