As organizers prepared for Remembrance Day ceremonies at Fanshawe College, many staff and students were already wearing poppies to honour those who made sacrifices to ensure peace and freedom in Canada.
The Royal Canadian Legion notes on their website that Poppies were found blooming across the fields during the first World War.
many people may know from the poem In Flanders Fields written by John McCrae. But while some do not know that the flower is meant as a symbole of peace and hope within devastation, most recognize it is a sign of respect for veteran soldiers.
Studio Technology Specialist Tristan Miller discussing why he wears a poppy Photo Credit – Ryan Baynton
London Catholic District teacher penny Shore-Talbot talks about the importance of a poppy for her Photo credit – Ryan Baynton
“I had grandparents who were in Europe during World War II… I feel respect for all the veterans who served,” said Tristan Miller, a studio technologist at Fanshawe.
A visiting educator from the London District Catholic School Board said she thinks of family members.
“My grandfather fought in World War II and my daughter is a Navy reservist,” said Penny Shore-Talbot. “It’s pretty special to me”.
Fanshawe student Jordan Box talks about why the poppy matters to her photo credit – Ryan Baynton
Students also reflected on the generations who came before.
“I wear a poppy for my great grandfather who fought in World War I,” said student Jordan Box.
No matter the reason to wear it, having a poppy on during Remembrance Day shows the respect for those who made great sacrifice for Canada.
London’s Remembrance Day Ceremony Wednesday starts with a walk that leaves the Delta Armouries Hotel at 10 a.m., with veterans and members of the public gathering at the Cenotaph at Victoria Park at 11.
