Poppy program again a success for American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17

Throughout the month of May, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17 of Lewes distributed bright-red poppies in honor and memory of fallen veterans.

Launched in 1921, the Poppy Campaign connects the visual image of the poppy as a nationally known and recognized symbol of sacrifice. The poppy is worn by Americans to honor those who served and died for this country. Many wear the poppy as a sign of support for veterans.

Auxiliary Unit members outside local businesses offer handmade flowers in exchange for contributions used to support veteran and active military needs. In this area, the unit focuses on programs such as Delaware Veterans Stand Down; Wreaths Across America; residences Milford Veterans Home, Milford Home of the Brave I and II; and supply packages for military members serving overseas.

Poppy Committee Co-Chairs Linda Roper and Dorothy Murray extend their appreciation to Best Ace Hardware stores of Lewes and Milton, Ocean Grill at Five Points, Dollar Tree in Midway and the Historic Lewes Farmers Market for allowing poppy stations outside their establishments. The unit is grateful for such a generous community of supporters.

This year, the 100th anniversaries of the American Legion and its auxiliary, inspired volunteers to spend hours creating hardy poppies out of used plastic water bottles. These shiny flowers were placed around the U.S. flag outside the post, to celebrate both the anniversary and to welcome the Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall, which was brought to Lewes mid-May, in a large part by proceeds from poppy donations.