Memorial Day Poppy Handout 1

Poppies are handed out on Memorial Day in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, as a symbol of remembrance for military personnel who have died in war. The tradition of wearing poppies originated from the famous World War I poem "In Flanders Fields" by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian physician and soldier.

During World War I, the Western Front in Europe was devastated by warfare, leaving behind barren landscapes. However, in the midst of this destruction, bright red poppies began to grow in the fields. Lieutenant Colonel McCrae was inspired by this sight and wrote the poem in 1915 as a tribute to his fallen comrades.

The poem describes how poppies grew among the graves of soldiers who died in battle, and it has since become a poignant symbol of remembrance. The red poppy flower represents the sacrifice of those who fought and died, and it has been adopted as a symbol to honor the memory of military personnel.

The practice of wearing poppies on Memorial Day, or Remembrance Day in the UK and Canada, gained popularity as a way for people to show their support and respect for fallen soldiers. Poppies are often sold by veterans' organizations, and the funds raised from their sale are used to support veterans and their families.

By wearing or displaying poppies, people demonstrate their gratitude for the sacrifices made by those who served their countries in times of war. It serves as a visual reminder of the lives lost and the ongoing commitment to remember and honor those who have given their lives in service to their nations.