National Poppy Month to benefit veterans

American Legion Post 34 celebrates National Poppy Month to benefit veterans. During the month of November, American Legion Post 34 will honor the fallen and support the future of local veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families and children with medical and financial needs during National Poppy Month.

According to American Legion Auxiliary Post34 Poppy chair Ronni Haverland, by wearing a poppy, citizens honor service members who died in the name of liberty, freedom and democracy, and supports veterans for generations to come.

“The red poppy came to symbolize the blood shed by those who fought and those who continue to fight for our country following World War I,” says Haverland. “It was popularized by the publication of the wartime poem ‘In Flanders Fields,’ written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD while serving on the front line in World War I. The poem honors soldiers killed in battle. In 1920, the poppy became the memorial flower of The American Legion.”

Arizonans can look for the poppy donation boxes at their favorite local businesses or at American Legion Post 34, which is located at 6272 E. Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek, Ariz.

Arizonans can look for the poppy cans at their favorite local businesses or at American Legion Post 34, which is located at 6272 E. Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek, Ariz.

The American Legion, formed in 1919, supports and advocates on behalf of veterans, active military and their families. The 501(c)(19) also supports the initiatives and programs of the American Legion while fostering patriotism and responsible citizenship.