Support veterans during Poppy Days

Across the country, American Legion members will celebrate the annual Poppy Days’ fundraiser Memorial Day weekend, May 25-26.

Local American Legion Posts and their auxiliaries will have volunteers at major intersections and at store fronts requesting your donations in exchange for a red crepe paper poppy that was handmade by a hospitalized veteran.

All monies collected that weekend are earmarked for programs that assist in the rehabilitation of our veterans and support for their families.

The hospitalized veterans who make the poppies earn a small wage that supplements their incomes and provides therapeutic benefits in their rehab programs.

Why a poppy? The poppy has been the memorial flower of the American Legion since 1920. It serves as a reminder of the past sacrifices and continuing needs of our veterans. The poppy is now a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice and is worn to honor the men and women who served and died for their country in all wars.

Members of American Legion Post 208 in Arlington Heights are anticipating another successful Poppy Day collection. The generosity of the local community has made it possible for Post 208 to provide financial aid to the three Chicago area VA hospitals.

To learn more about the mission and programs of the national American Legion and its auxiliary, visit www.americanlegion.org.

For information about local Post 208, visit www.americanlegionarlingtonheights.org.