American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17 observing Poppy Month
Throughout the month of May, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17 of Lewes will be outside local businesses, offering hand-made flowers in exchange for contributions used to assist the needs of local veterans and active military members.
Launched in 1921, the Poppy Campaign connects the visual image of the bright-red poppy as a nationally known and recognized symbol of sacrifice, and it is worn by Americans to honor those who served and died for this country. Many wear the poppy as a sign of support for veterans.
Last year, the Lewes Auxiliary’s Poppy Program had to be dramatically reduced - there was no poppy distribution whatsoever in May 2020 - which makes it even more critical that this year is a success.
In this area, the unit focuses its support on the Wilmington Veterans Medical Center, the Georgetown Veterans Community Based Outpatient Clinic, Delaware Veterans Stand Down, Wreaths Across America; residents of Delaware Veterans Home in Milford; Milford Home of the Brave I and II; and supply packages for military members serving overseas. In addition, when community organizations contact Post 17 Auxiliary with a pressing veterans need, it must be prepared to respond quickly.
Support American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17 and stop by one of the poppy stations on all the Saturdays in May. Locations and schedules include: Dollar Tree at Midway, Ace Hardware Lewes and Ace Hardware Milton, all from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and on Saturday, May 29, volunteers will be strolling through the Historic Lewes Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to noon, and a poppy station will be set up outside Citizens Bank on Second Street from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Grab a poppy and, in return, help provide the funds needed to support local veterans’ programs. Wear the poppy proudly and show the world the value of brave military and thank them for their services.
Mail a tax-deductible check contribution to American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17/Poppy Program, P.O. Box 35, Nassau, DE 19969. For more information, contact Poppy Co-Chairs Linda Roper at 302-388-1203, and Dorothy Murray at 302-260-1098.
