The VFW 8078 and the American Legion Post 31 recently announced their Poppy boys and girls. For the VFW, Audrey Costenson and Bryant Robinson were chosen this year and for the American Legion, the Poppy boy and girl are Nate Deschepper and Mable Maino.

Poppy Day is held every year prior to Memorial Day. The VFW and American Legion work together to recognize fallen service members, through crepe paper poppies made by disabled veterans.

The origins go back to the early 20th century, during the war. Amidst the mass casualties, survivors found bright red poppies still standing tall. It was symbolic of their strength and determination, and also acted as a memorial for those who have fallen. From then on, poppies became their memorial flower.

The tradition of making and distributing poppies continues every year. Disabled vets make the poppies out of crepe paper pieces, then VFW and American Legion purchase the poppies from them. From there, the organizations work together to hand these poppies out in exchange for a donation. The donations are then given back to help veterans.

Local VFW and American Legion posts will mark Poppy Weekend this Friday and Saturday, continuing a tradition that honors fallen service members and supports veterans through poppy donations.