Royal Canadian Legion Br 157 begins annual Poppy campaign
- Ron Giofu
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
With Remembrance Day approaching, it’s time for people to buy their poppies to recognize and fundraise for those who served.
The 2025 Poppy campaign began Friday at town hall with the annual pinning of a poppy on the mayor. Members of council and administration were also on hand in the council chambers to get a poppy pinned to them by Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 president Shawn Wilkie.
Following the poppies being pinned, the ceremony moved outside where a flag raising was held in front of the building.
“Remembrance Day is not a time for celebration. It’s a time for remembrance,” said Wilkie.
Wilkie said there have been 142 veterans and service people lost over the past year. The aftermath after they returned home takes its toll, he said, adding 64 of those lost suffered from PTSD.
“When you see a vet, thank a vet,” he said.
Amherstburg is an “amazing” community that supports its Legion and veterans, with the Legion giving back to veteran-related causes to the tune of $41,500 over the past year. Not only can veterans suffer, their families can as well, Wilkie added.
Mayor Michael Prue said the sacrifices of those who served will not be forgotten. He noted that after World War II, the poppy was the only plant left growing in war-torn areas.
Wearing a poppy is a way of showing that society will never forget those who served, including those who made the supreme sacrifice.
“Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” the mayor stated.
The town will always be proud of Legion Br. 157, Prue added, and the work the Legion does in the community.
“We owe them a debt of gratitude,” said Prue. “We will always be thankful for them.”
Royal Canadian Legion Br 157 begins annual Poppy campaign
By Ron Giofu