By JACKIE HOGAN
May 1–After the guns fell silent in World War I, something unexpected began to grow in the war-torn fields of Europe. Amid the devastation, red poppies began to bloom. Scientists later discovered that the churned soil of France and Belgium had been enriched by lime from the rubble — and from the dirt and mud rose a sea of bright red petals.
It was this resilient flower that inspired Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD, to pen the poem In Flanders Field while serving on the front lines. His words gave the poppy new meaning — as a symbol of the bloodshed in battle and the lives forever changed by war.
In 1920, the red poppy was adopted as the official flower of The American Legion family, becoming a powerful emblem of remembrance and gratitude. By 1924, poppy distribution became a national program, led by the American Legion Auxiliary. Each year, Legion Family members distribute handmade poppies, asking only for a donation in return — donations that directly support veterans, active-duty military, and their families with medical and financial needs.
Here in Cambria, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 432 carries on that tradition with pride and purpose.
Each spring, a letter is mailed to our membership with a handmade poppy created by a veteran, asking for a small donation. Every dollar collected becomes part of something bigger: backpacks for local veterans, Central Coast Honor Flight, New Life K-9s, and so much more in support of our Vets.
This Memorial Day, poppies will be available at the Veteran’s Memorial ceremony, and this year, members of the Auxiliary will also be at the Cambria Farmer’s Market every Friday through the end of May. Please stop by the table, say hello, and take home a poppy — a small but powerful token of remembrance.
If you feel moved to donate, know that your generosity will bloom into real help for this community, just like the poppies did in Flanders Fields so long ago.
