As is tradition, the first poppy ceremony happened on Friday, October 25 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #22 in Drumheller.
The ceremony signifies the start of the annual Poppy Fund Campaign for the Legion. Ron Evans, Legion Branch 22 President shares the importance of the ceremony. “The significance of the first poppy, it’s national and starts off in Ottawa. Usually, the first poppy is given to the Governor General of Canada and tradition has it in other communities it goes to the highest ranking local politician or representative of the people. What it does, is officially start the poppy campaign. Right after the first poppy is given, we have people that go throughout the town to drop off poppy boxes to local businesses and schools. It’s two weeks long and it is an exciting time for us.”
For decades the Drumheller Valley and the surrounding communities have always provided tremendous support for the poppy campaign acknowledges Evans. “The Town of Drumheller and surrounding areas, very, very generous when it comes to this time of year. We appreciate it. All funds raised through the Poppy Fund in Drumheller, stay in Drumheller and go to our veterans.”
There are a number of rules on how the funds raised can be spent, and one group that can receive some of the funds is the local Sea Cadets Corps. Evans shares that the veterans and members of the Royal Canadian Legion enjoy spending time with members of the Sea Cadets. “We have an incredible group of Cadets here in town. Coincidentally, yesterday, myself and another Legion member spent some time with them at (the Navy League) polishing boots of all things, on a Sunday afternoon.”
Evans appreciates the connection the Legion has with the youth of the community, from the Sea Cadets and Girl Guides, to other local youth groups as he believes it is important for the young people to go and experience their community.
The Poppy Campaign has begun so all are encouraged to stop by many local businesses in the Drumheller Valley, make a donation, and grab a poppy. The campaign runs from now until November 11th.
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