Veterans Day is Nearly Here! Wear Your Poppy All Month Long!

November 11, 2020, marks the day we honor and remember veterans.

World War I officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.” In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day.

In 1954, after World War II, at the urging of veteran’ service organizations, Armistice Day was changed to Veterans Day, and on June 1, 1954, November 11 became a national holiday -- the day to honor all American veterans.

As Veterans Day got its start from World War I, so did the wearing of the Remembrance Poppy. Lt. Col John McCrae penned the famous poem “In Flanders Field” in the spring of 1915. The poppy spoken of in the poem became a national symbol of hope and remembrance. Today the United States tends to wear a remembrance poppy on Memorial Day while in the United Kingdom the remembrance poppy is worn in November.

The simple wearing of a remembrance poppy during November shows that you remember the sacrifices made by veterans as well as active duty military. It is my hope that all Daughters will wear a remembrance poppy during the month of November. This small act will show every veteran you encounter that you remember their service, you remember the veteran who still suffers from PTSD, you remember the veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice, you remember our active duty military and the families who serve alongside them.  The wearing of a little red poppy says so much. 

While the pandemic has been challenging for all of us, it is most difficult for the elderly. DAR members across the country have been showering veterans with birthday cards, well wishes, party favors and parades. These small acts of kindness show our veterans that they are not forgotten, and their service is appreciated.

Daughters have stayed busy during the stay at home orders by knitting, sewing, crocheting and quilting. With winter coming on, what could be better than a handmade gift from a Daughter of the American Revolution? The items made are both functional and beautiful. Daughters have knitted hats and lap robes, tied quilts, sewn wheelchair bags and backpacks.

Next month we have the opportunity to serve veterans while practicing social distancing, wearing a mask and remaining out of doors. A perfect activity during a pandemic, who would have ever thought it? The activity I am referring to is Wreaths Across America. The final countdown to sponsor wreaths and sign up to participate has begun. Please promote this worthwhile project within your chapters and community.

As you serve veterans, please share your stories, photos and experiences on the DAR Service for Veterans Official Facebook group. We are inspired, motivated and uplifted by sharing.