Activity serves to remember veterans, donations used to help those disabled
Hudson Oaks — At one of the busiest stores early on Saturday morning, American Legion Post 163 recruited Junior Sons and Girls of the Auxiliary to hand out red poppies in remembrance of all veterans who have served our country.
The red poppies were of huge significance to soldiers during World War I. As they fought in Belgium and France, they were amazed by the abundance and endurance of the red poppies that continued to bloom in the fields as the dead lay among them.
Continuing the tradition, Tyler Watson, Taylor Watson, Jordan Poe, JoAnn Dorsett and Jaylinn Poe offered the poppies, which were handmade by veterans, to shoppers as they entered and exited the Hudson Oaks Walmart.
The young members of the American Legion will continue handing out the poppies on Sunday at the Weatherford Walmart.
The poppies were offered free, meant to be worn to show support for all members of the military, with special significance for disabled children of veterans. Any and all donations were accepted enthusiastically by the young American Legion members.
“My grandfather was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam War. I am here because of his service,” Jordan Poe, 14, said as she offered a silk poppy to a customer leaving the store.
“My father served 27 years in the military and encouraged my involvement in the American Legion since I was 8,” said Johnathan Poe, commander of the Sons Auxiliary.
In return, as his father did for him, Poe continues the tradition of involving his own children to help support a cause.
“We all need help these days and our veterans should be on the top of the list,” said Gayle Short of Weatherford, as she donated a handful of change from her purse.
Another customer leaving the store, accepted his poppy and inserted cash into the tin can.
“Keep doing what you’re doing,” Bill Arbuckle said with a smile to the young ladies.
