Legion Poppy Campaign October 30

WHEATLEY/LEAMINGTON — The annual Legion Branch 324 poppy campaign will begin on October 30 and run up until Remembrance Day November 11.

Poppy sales and Remembrance services will look a little different in 2020.

“The importance of a live ceremony honouring our veterans and their sacrifices is considered paramount,” said Branch 324 Immediate Past President Bill Robertson. “Especially during the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

With so many events cancelled in the past few months, Robertson and Poppy chairman Bob McKee believe the Remembrance Service will be more important than ever.

The Legion has been given guidelines and recommendations from government agencies with regard to the Remembrance Service. They will be following municipal and government directions with regard to limits to outside gatherings and if required, inside gatherings. Physically distancing must be observed and attendees must wear a mask.

Bob McKee, left and Bill Robertson pose in front of the Wheatley Cenotaph on Wednesday, September 23. The pair are co-chairs of the Legion’s annual Poppy Campaign, which will kick off on October 30 this year.

Members of the Cadet Corp are not allowed to participate this year, so both the Remembrance Service and poppy sales will take on a different look.

Wheatley’s service will be held on November 11 at 11 am, while Leamington’s will follow at noon. There will be no march parade by veterans, cadets or Canadian Forces. There will be a reduced colour party which will march on the colours.

Spectators are discouraged from attending due to number restrictions. Wreaths will be laid prior to the service, except for the Branch and Ladies Auxiliary wreaths. Any other organizations wishing to lay a wreath may do so after the service. You can make arrangements for this by calling 519-825-4161 or stopping at Branch 324 Thursday, Friday or Saturday between 3 pm and 7 pm.

McKee and Robertson, co-chairs of the poppy committee, said that the usual donation boxes will be at a number of locations, but without the cadets, poppy sales outside stores will be limited.

They may set up a table inside some of the stores where legion members will sell poppies.