Dear Editor:
As the wife of a Vietnam-era Army veteran, I hold a special place in my heart for the parents, siblings, spouses, and friends of those who served. I can’t help but think of all the men and women who have gone to fight for this great nation and didn’t return home.
While we are all guilty of celebrating the unofficial start of summer and encouraging each other to “have a good weekend,” it is important to remember the reason for the holiday: Memorial Day is the day Americans set aside to honor those brave men and women who met tragic ends while defending our freedom. It is our duty to honor their sacrifices, to pray for their families, and to bow our heads in recognition of their service.
On Saturday, May 27, American Legion Auxiliary Unit Peotone Unit 392 will distribute poppies as a tribute to our fallen warriors. We invite Peotone residents to stop by and see us at various locations throughout town to receive a poppy in exchange for a donation, then wear in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We must never forget.
The poppy, which bloomed on the battlefields of France after World War I, has grown to become an internationally known and recognized symbol of the lives sacrificed in war and the hope that none died in vain. One hundred percent of donations received will go directly to help veterans, military, and their families. The United States Congress declared the Friday before Memorial Day as National Poppy Day.
Mrs. Ann Nagel, President
American Legion Auxiliary, Peotone Unit 392
ALAUnit392@yahoo.com