The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – On Nov. 10, VFW Post 1033 Auxiliary, assisted by the comrades, held an impactful program to celebrate veterans and educate the youth on the origin of the buddy poppy. Auxiliary secretary, Linda Morrison, wanted a Veterans Day program that also included teaching the middle school children about the beginning of the poppy and the sacrifices made by so many American soldiers during World War I. Working with the history department, Luke Bradley, Mary Persinger, Garlynda Haynes, and principal Lori Mattson. Together, they created an informative and heartfelt program.
Persinger served as Master of Ceremonies for the event. The program was conducted by the students in the history department, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Aleia Jack.
A video was shown of the Armed Forces Medley of the United States Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and the Coast Guard. Thank you all for your service.
Jaiyana Johnson and Jacionna Ray presented “WHAT IS A VETERAN?”
A video entitled “DEDICATED TO OUR SERVICE MEN” presented a look at the men and women who swore an oath to the country, protecting it and you. It showed real soldiers in their role as defenders of our nation.
Chris Unroe and Ethan Tucker talked about “THE GREAT WAR.” The Great War is a historical name for World War I, a global conflict that took place from 1914 to 1918. There are monuments at the Courthouse of those veterans who paid the ultimate price during this war.
The “Buddy Poppy” comes from the Poppy Flower that grew in the fields of France and Belgium despite all the death and destruction during World War I. It was used as a symbol of remembrance for those who served in this war. Faith Shull and Remington Anderson did a great job presenting this special segment of the program.
The poppy movement was inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields” written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae of the Canadian forces, before the United States entered World War I. The poem was read by Elizabeth Bazzera and Emily Hobbs.
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, will 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 your 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.
A very special 100-year-old World War II veteran, Marion Noel, United States Navy, was the guest speaker. Mr. Noel spoke about the draft and his decision to enlist in the Air Force. The children were attentive and asked questions afterward. Very heartwarming.
VFW Post 1033 comrades Bill Atherholt and Dale Comer gave a demonstration on how to fold the United States Flag while Chris Unroe and Ethan Tucker read the explanation of each fold. Long wave old glory.
The program ended with a video on the Wounded Warrior Project and Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless The USA.” No one says it better.
Curtis A. Smith VFW Post 1033 and Auxiliary were honored to be a part of such a special program that touched the lives of so many youths.
