Poppy Days in Galesburg

The little red poppy is the symbol of sacrifice to honor the men and women who served and died for their country in all wars.   Poppies are handmade by Veteran residents at Quincy Veterans Home. Materials are delivered to the Veterans who assemble them for distribution in May.   Veterans receive payment for their effort, and money derived from the Poppy distribution is returned to the Veterans and their families through the Veterans Assistance and Rehabilitation program. All funds are held in a separate account and used only for the VETERANS SERVICE PROGRAMS AT VA FACILITIES AND LOCAL NURSING HOMES. Contributions are also given to the Veterans “HONOR FLIGHT”, “VETERANS VAN”, (providing rides to Iowa Veterans Hosp.), and “DEFENDERS OF FREEDOM”, (providing housing for homeless Veterans)     Veterans residents of local Nursing Homes receive Christmas and Easter gifts, and comfort items.   This is only a few of the items budgeted from the Veterans Poppy Fund.

We urge members and friends to volunteer their services in the distribution of the Legion Memorial Poppy to the Galesburg Community. Many local merchants have consented to have volunteers distribute poppies or place poppy canisters at their place of business. We appreciate their assistance and support to this worthwhile program. Those wishing to assist may report at the Poppy Headquarters at the Legion Home, 571 E. North Street, or call June O’Brien at 344-1661.

A poppy window display may be seen at Lindstrom’s Appliances on Seminary & Main Streets, arranged by Jeannie Lampson.

The American Legion Post and Auxiliary Unit will participate in the Memorial Day Parade and place a memorial wreath during ceremonies at the Court House.

WE THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE IN THIS OVERWHELMING OBLIGATION TO OUR VETERANS!