On Memorial Day – a day that began as a voluntary Decoration Day in 1868 – we honor our military living and dead who have sacrificed their lives for our continued freedom. The decoration of graves and the marching in parades is one way civilians can show their support and appreciation. Another is through the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) donation program. The VFW was established in 1922 as a completely volunteer program of military personnel either discharged from duty through normal courses or through disability. They work to raise money to support veterans who need assistance, both financial and otherwise. The poppies they distribute are made by disabled veterans at Veterans Administration hospitals throughout the US and are an expression of thanks to the many people who make a donation to their cause. You might find a man in a brown, red or blue cap sitting outside your local grocery store on Memorial Day weekend or Veterans Day weekend with a handful of these poppies. I encourage you to make a donation, no matter how small, and thank that man for what he did to keep you safe and free. Your donation will go to support orphans of veterans, the VFW Rehabilitation Service, scholarships, and more in your own community.
This is a snapshot of VFW members marching in a parade, displaying the American flag. Thank you, gentlemen.
Who Were They? 