During World War 1, the Second Battle of Ypres, Belgium in 1915 was exceptionally horrific. The use of poison gas by the German Army
devastated the Allied troops.
Dr. John McCrae, who was part of the Canadian Field Artillery Unit, had a friend, Alexis Helmer, who was one of thousands of Canadians killed in that battle. During Helmers’ burial service, McCrae wrote the first few lines of the poem “In Flanders Fields.”
The poppies are a reminder of the valiant servicemen that paid the ultimate sacrifice, defending their country during that six-week battle. Even now, visitors pay homage to Flanders Field and the troops buried there.
On May 24, you will see volunteers out in the streets, or out in front of stores asking for donations. Kind people who donate will receive a poppy. I put mine on my rear
view mirror in my vehicle. I’ve seen them on hats, coat lapels, purses and lunch boxes.
Despite that it was over 100 years ago, we continue to honor those fallen troops.
Members of the American Legion and the VFW are vigilant in helping collect donations commemorating the date in military history. These donations help support veterans and affiliated programs, and 100% of the donations go to veterans.
In Flanders Fields
By Lt. Col. John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Michael L. Wojciechowski
Elmwood Park
American Legion Post 42 Evanston
