Legion remembers the fallen, supports the living

The American Legion's Washington Office held a National Poppy Day Legislative Reception on May 23 at the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., to remember the fallen and support living servicemembers, as well as show gratitude for all the work government and congressional officials do to support the nation’s veterans.

More than 160 guests attended the reception, which featured complimentary appetizers, bourbon whiskey tasting, wine/beer selection and soft bluegrass music. Matthew Shuman, director of the Legion’s Legislative Division, and Executive Director Verna Jones gave brief remarks at the ceremony.

“This is truly a special occasion for us,” National Commander Charles E. Schmidt said. “The red poppy is a symbol of sacrifices made in service to our country. … In 1920, it became the official flower of American Legion families to memorialize the soldiers who fought and died through (World War I). Distributions of these poppies became a national program of The American Legion in 1924. This year, The American Legion asked members of Congress to recognize the importance of the poppy with the support of House Resolution (HR) 309.”

Thanks to the support of H.R. 309, a bill sponsored by Rep. Andre Carson (D-Ind.) that was referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform earlier this month, Schmidt said Friday, May 26, 2017, will mark the first-ever National Poppy Day in the United States, a tradition he is optimistic will carry on for years to come.

“Our members and posts are in every congressional district,” Shuman said. “The American Legion is involved in every community, votes in every election and has met with every one of your offices. I think it’s fair to say that The American Legion is part of the fabric of this great nation.”