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The Poppy

The Poppy — a flower of remembrance, a memorial for American soldiers who have paid the supreme sacrifice in order that America could remain free.

Since the tradition began following World War I, the Poppy program has enabled us to offer direct assistance to our veterans and their families.

With the help of our dedicated Auxiliary members we will be able to continue our efforts.

  

 In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

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.

Lt. Col. John McCrae

POPPY SYMBOLISM

The four petals represent…

…Dedication

…Sacrifice

…Responsibility

…Compassion

The red petals… stand for the vast outpouring of blood.

The black… the mud and desolation of all battlefields.

The green of the stem and foliage… is symbolic of the forests, meadows and fields where generations of Americans have perished to make this land free.

The stem… represents the courage and determination of our fallen warriors.

The assembled produce… a flower… is a symbol of resurrection, which is sure to follow.

~~~   ~~~~~   ~~~

Courtesy of Oconto Falls  Unit 302