The Newmarket Legion honoured the beginning of its annual poppy campaign by raising a poppy flag with the town for the first time in its history.
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 426 raised the flag at Peace Park alongside dignitaries Oct. 27. This marks the start of a two-week campaign for the Legion’s annual fundraiser, with the flag emblazoned with the poppy symbol significance remembrance of the sacrifices of soldiers.
Legion president Crystal Cook said they wanted something new to remind people about the start of the campaign.
“We just thought it was important to raise a poppy flag to let people know that the remembrance period has started,” she said. “To help people remember why the legion’s here. We’re here to support our veterans.”
Over the next couple of weeks, poppy boxes will make their way throughout the town to Newmarket businesses and facilities. The campaign is the biggest fundraiser for the Legion each year, garnering millions across Canada to support the Legion's efforts to help veterans and their families.
Newmarket Mayor John Taylor and Deputy Mayor Tom Vegh attended the flag-raising ceremony. Taylor said the flag-raising is a good idea to remind the public about the ongoing campaign.
“Please make a contribution and get a poppy. It’s a tiny thing, but it adds up to something very significant,” Taylor said. “Surely, that’s something we can all do given their sacrifices.”
“The poppy remains a well-recognized symbol around the world,” Cook said. “It recognizes the ultimate sacrifice of those who have served Canada over the years.”
The local Legion branch president said she was pleased with how the flag-raising went. She said she remains positive about the campaign to come.
“The town of Newmarket’s always been more than generous with their donations, and those donations are what helps us to help our veterans throughout the remainder of the year,” Cook said. “I’m hoping and optimistic the town will once again fully support and the campaign and fully support the veterans.”
She reminded everyone to observe two minutes of silence wherever they may be on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.
You can donate directly to the poppy fund through the Royal Canadian Legion website.
