What Flower is the Symbol of Veterans Day?
Introduction
Veterans Day is a significant holiday in the United States, celebrated on November 11th every year. It is a day to honor and thank all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces. While many people associate Veterans Day with parades, ceremonies, and discounts, few know that there is a special flower that holds great significance on this day. In this article, we will explore the answer to the question: What flower is the symbol of Veterans Day?
The History of the Poppy
The flower that is most closely associated with Veterans Day is the poppy. The poppy has a rich history dating back to World War I, when it was first adopted as a symbol of remembrance. The story begins in 1915, when a Canadian doctor, John McCrae, wrote a poem called "In Flanders Fields" after witnessing the death of many soldiers in the trenches of Belgium. The poem describes the poppies that grew in the battle-scarred fields, and how they bloomed in the midst of death and destruction.
The Poppy’s Significance
The poppy became a symbol of remembrance because of its ability to grow in the harsh conditions of the battlefield. Despite the devastation and destruction, the poppy was able to thrive, and its bright red color became a beacon of hope and resilience. The poppy also has a deeper significance, as it is said to represent the blood of fallen soldiers. The red color of the poppy is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have died in service to their country.
The American Legion’s Role
In 1920, the American Legion, a veterans’ organization, adopted the poppy as its official symbol. The organization began selling poppies as a way to raise funds for disabled veterans and their families. The poppy sales became a successful fundraiser, and the flower quickly became a symbol of Veterans Day.
How to Wear a Poppy
There are several ways to wear a poppy on Veterans Day. The most common way is to wear a small paper poppy on your lapel or collar. The poppy is usually worn on the left side, near the heart, as a sign of respect and remembrance. Some people also wear a larger poppy as a brooch or pin, or even as a hair clip.
Poppy Etiquette
There are a few etiquette rules to keep in mind when wearing a poppy:
- Wear it on the left side: The poppy should be worn on the left side of your clothing, near the heart.
- Don’t wear it upside down: The poppy should be worn with the petals facing downwards, not upwards.
- Don’t wear it as a decoration: The poppy is a symbol of remembrance, not a decoration. Avoid wearing it as a fashion statement or to make a statement.
Table: Poppy Etiquette
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Wear it on the left side | The poppy should be worn on the left side of your clothing, near the heart. |
| Don’t wear it upside down | The poppy should be worn with the petals facing downwards, not upwards. |
| Don’t wear it as a decoration | The poppy is a symbol of remembrance, not a decoration. Avoid wearing it as a fashion statement or to make a statement. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the poppy is the symbol of Veterans Day, a flower that represents the sacrifices made by those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The poppy’s significance is rooted in its ability to grow in the harsh conditions of the battlefield, and its bright red color is a reminder of the blood of fallen soldiers. By wearing a poppy on Veterans Day, we can show our respect and gratitude to those who have served and sacrificed for our country.
