Remembrance Day, held annually on November 11th, is a poignant day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of those who have served in the armed forces. This day marks the anniversary of the end of World War I, which concluded at 11 am on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
While Remembrance Day itself falls on November 11th, many towns and cities across the UK host events and parades on the preceding Sunday, November 10th, in 2024. The National Service of Remembrance takes place at the Cenotaph in London on this day.
A powerful symbol of Remembrance Day is the poppy, a bright red flower that grew abundantly in the ravaged landscapes of World War I. The poppy’s resilience in the face of destruction resonated deeply with those who witnessed its tenacious growth.
The story of the poppy’s connection to Remembrance Day is deeply moving. Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian doctor, was deeply touched by the sight of these poppies amidst the destruction of World War I. His grief over the loss of a friend in Ypres inspired him to write the now-famous poem, ‘In Flanders Fields.’
Moina Michael, an American academic, embraced the poppy as a symbol of remembrance for those who had fallen in the war. She campaigned tirelessly to have it adopted as an official symbol of Remembrance across the United States and worked with others to achieve the same in Canada, Australia, and the UK.
In 1921, Anna Guérin, a French woman living in the UK, planned to sell poppies in London. She met with Earl Haig, the founder of the Royal British Legion, who was moved by her initiative and decided to adopt the poppy as the organization’s emblem. The Royal British Legion, founded in 1921, ordered nine million poppies and sold them on November 11th of that year.
Today, the poppy remains a powerful symbol of remembrance and sacrifice. Wearing a poppy is a simple but meaningful way to show your support for the Armed Forces community and those who have served. The Royal British Legion, the organization responsible for distributing poppies, offers a variety of designs, from classic to contemporary.
The Royal British Legion encourages individuals to wear poppies anytime they feel moved to do so, but especially in the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day. You can purchase a poppy from the official Royal British Legion Poppy Shop, their shop on Amazon, or from various other retailers. All proceeds from the sale of poppies go directly to supporting the Royal British Legion’s vital work in aiding the Armed Forces community, serving and ex-serving personnel, and their families.
By participating in Remembrance Day events, wearing a poppy, and supporting the Royal British Legion, you can contribute to honoring the memories and sacrifices of those who have served our country and continue to uphold the spirit of remembrance.
