As we all know, our precious freedoms were not merely assimilated. They were earned by others, on beaches and battlefields.
In 2016, both The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary passed resolutions in support of declaring the Friday before Memorial Day as National Poppy Day.
Accordingly, the American Legion Family will commemorate its fourth annual National Poppy Day® – held the Friday before Memorial Day – May 22.
We’ve come a long way since The American Legion Family adopted the poppy as its memorial flower in the early 1920s. Since then, the blood-red icon has become an enduring symbol of honor for the sacrifices of our veterans from the battlefields of Europe in World War I to today’s global war on terror.
On average, The American Legion Auxiliary raises nearly $4 million each year distributing poppies throughout the nation. 100 percent of these donations are used to serve veterans, military and their families.
How can you support the mission of National Poppy Day during the COVID-19 pandemic?
While, unfortunately, this year, you will not see auxiliary members distributing poppies in your community or participating in Memorial Day parades, you can still help with the mission of National Poppy Day in remembrance of those who fought and died for our freedom and those veterans and military still protecting it today – by supporting your local American Legion Auxiliary unit – a voluntary organization supporting our active military, veterans, and children and youth.
And wouldn’t it be wonderful to line our community with a sea of American flags flying from all the homes!
Eligibility for Membership has broadened!
As of August 2019, membership in the American Legion Auxiliary, which up to that time had been an all-female organization, has been extended to include all spouses (female or male) of U.S. veterans and service members who meet the American Legion eligibility requirements, i.e. married to an active or honorably-discharged veteran who is a member of the American Legion. This amendment makes the American Legion Auxiliary the “largest and most inclusive” volunteer organization supporting our veterans, and children and youth.
With this broader eligibility, those interested in joining the American Legion Auxiliary should contact their nearest or ANY American Legion Post for further information. We would be delighted to have you join us!
Rosanne Spinner, public relations chair of the Nassau County Committee of the American Legion Auxiliary
