By Eric Heinz
An annual tradition since 1922, the Veterans of Foreign Wars are collecting donations for Buddy Poppies, which honor American troops.
During the City Council meeting on Monday, a proclamation was made to signify Nov. 14 and 15 as Buddy Poppy Days.
“Your VFW Post 7142 is gratified by the proclamation of (Nov.) 14 and 15 as Buddy Poppy Days,” Greenleaf said. “We will be sharing with all of our neighbors Buddy Poppies. We spend 100 percent of our income (from the poppies) on active and Veterans Affairs.”
According to the national Veterans of Foreign Wars website, the Buddy Poppies were originally from the Flanders region of Belgium and eventually adopted by the American troops.
The website states the proceeds from the poppies also go to compensating the veterans who assemble them and veterans who are disabled and in need of assistance as well as providing assistance to the VFW National Home for Children, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
“During the 1923 encampment, the VFW decided that ‘Buddy’ Poppies would be assembled by disabled and needy veterans who would be paid for their work to provide them with financial assistance,” the website states. “The next year, disabled veterans at the Buddy Poppy factory in Pittsburgh assembled VFW Buddy Poppies.”
Greenleaf said the Buddy Poppies will be available for purchase at Ralphs, Stater Bros., Albertsons and other locations around San Clemente.
For more information, visit www.vfw7142.com or visit www.vfw.org.
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