ANTIGONISH, N.S. — Lest we forget – that was a central theme Friday morning (Oct. 25), as Royal Canadian Legion Arras Branch 59, in Antigonish, launched its annual poppy campaign in the lead up to Remembrance Day (Nov. 11).
“It is a very important time of the year for us and for every Legion across Canada,” Arras Branch 59 poppy campaign chair J.P. MacEachern said.
Donations to the annual campaign go to a special poppy fund, which provides assistance to veterans and their families, along with supporting related community projects.
One of those initiatives is sponsorship of 285 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps (RCACC), which is based in Antigonish. CWO Melanie Gammon attended the poppy campaign launch to accept the organization’s annual funding.
“We are very fortunate because we have a great area to canvass,” MacEachern said, while noting the strong turnout of members for the poppy campaign launch.
MacEachern continued his tradition of pinning the first poppies of the annual campaign; Arras Branch 59 chaplain Reverend Peter Smith and president James Matheson were amongst the recipients.
Arlynne McGrath, St. F.X. service learning community co-ordinator, also received one of the first poppies. She represented first-year students from the Bachelor of Arts and Science in Health program, who will be contributing their time to the 2019 poppy campaign.
After the launch ceremony, veterans, legion members and other volunteers started the distribution of poppies and donation trays to businesses and other community locations.
Remember to watch out for them, and offer any support you can.