Poppy Day, Memorial Day bring extra opportunities to tell veteran stories as part of nation’s.
In a March blog post on the American Legion Auxiliary’s website, National Americanism Committee Chair Diana Sirovina discussed the upcoming semiquincentennial of the United States and how the organization can elevate the stories of the nation’s veterans in this time of elevated history.
“No matter what the plans are for celebrations, it is also important that we take time to reflect on the many parts of our history that brought us to this historic milestone,” she commented. “It is particularly important that we celebrate, remember and honor those heroic men and women who served in our armed forces and fought to give us the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Sirovina highlighted the Auxiliary’s annual National Poppy Day – on Friday, May 22 this year – as one opportunity to do so, and Memorial Day as another; the acts of honor and remembrance the organization performs each year, from poppy bookmarks to floral tributes on military graves, can easily be combined with birthday events. And as a bonus, she pointed out, the American Legion Family can also take these opportunities to share their own history within their communities, perhaps via projects undertaken by younger members, including how they celebrated past milestone American birthdays.
“We are creating a piece of history with every speech, every party and every parade,” Sirovina concluded. “Enjoy every minute of this historic occasion …. Celebrate our freedom and remember those who fought for it!”
By National Executive Committee resolution, American Legion departments and posts are encouraged to connect with their state and local America250 commissions. An online directory is available to contact these commissions at america250.org/our-partners/state-and-territory-commissions. Share your stories of involvement on Legiontown, and send details of your post or department events to magazine@legion.org.
- USA250