This time of year, when the dark, gray frosty days roll in and the leaves have been whipped from their branches, it is common to see the familiar poppy adorning lapels. I wonder what significance these little red reminders have for those who wear them. Did their grandfather or uncle serve? Was their husband or son or daughter killed? Do they wear it because they support the Royal Canadian Legion in the important work they do to provide services to veterans? Or do they wear a poppy simply because it matters that we acknowledge the dedication of the current Regular and Reserve members of the Canadian Forces?
As a child I watched my father proudly attach the poppy into his beret. In those days, my mom would give him the little round bit of eraser from an HB pencil to place on the sharp tip so it wouldn’t fall out. He insisted that we begin wearing the poppy on the left breast on Nov. 1 and remove it immediately following the Remembrance Day ceremony. He was a staunch supporter of the Legion. I remember how touched he was when, in his later years at the nursing home, he received a letter from a young person thanking him for his service.
As an RMC cadet, I recall how sobering it was to stand in the freezing drizzle, knowing any discomfort paled in comparison to the reality of war. Hearing the poem In Flanders Fields recited and the mournful sound of the trumpet playing the Last Post would bring a sense of sorrow. Finally, the almost unendurable minute of silence followed by Reveille, inspired a new resolve to remember those who secured our freedom.
Once I had children of my own, I attended Remembrance Day services held in the auditorium of their school. Veterans would give a heartfelt talk and I marveled at the rapt attention of the children. It is efforts like these that give me hope that the sacrifices of those who fought, suffered mental or physical injuries, or died in armed conflicts or peacekeeping duties will not be forgotten.
Currently there are many Canadian families impacted by armed conflicts in the world. For them the threats are real. As you place a poppy on your lapel this year, please remember the past and the present by supporting those who work towards a peaceful future.
Capt (Ret’d) Barbara Burger