American Legion and Auxiliary Poppy Days this week!

Every year, as Memorial Day approaches, the American Legion Post 117 and its Auxiliary Unit prepare for another year of service to veterans, with their annual Poppy drive program.

The paper poppies distributed by the American Legion and Auxiliary are hand made by veterans in remembrance of those who have died in America's wars, past and present. The poppy has been used as a symbol since 1920, inspired by the World War I poem "In Flanders Fields."

Each year, the Manchester American Legion Auxiliary Unit sponsors an art contest at Klager Elementary School to raise awareness of the meaning of the poppy program among the students, as well as to inspire patriotism throughout the community. This year, three winners have been named. First place winner was John Barnard, second place was Aiden Creffield, and third place Libby Burch.

John Barnard, Aiden Creffield, and Libby Burch have been announced as winners of this year's poppy poster contest by American Legion Auxiliary Unit #117

The Auxiliary will distribute poppies on Friday, May 16 and the Legion will on Saturday May 17. All monies donated for the poppies are earmarked to help veterans, active service personnel, and their families.

Watch for poppies to be distributed downtown throughout this weekend, and be generous when you are offered one. Our veterans need your support!

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.