In Flanders Fields

[CanadaCraig]

Hi Everyone!! :)

Many say that the Second World War officially began when Germany invaded Poland on September 1st, 1939. But the madness began well before then. Adolf Hitler became Germany's 'Chancellor' [leader] on January 30th, 1933. By the time the war ended - 6 years later [in 1945] 55,000,000 lives were lost.

Young men [for the most part] full of promise - filled with dreams - had their lives cut short all because of the insanity of man.

It is - in my humble opinion - not only shameful to forget the sacrifices made by those who came before us - but a disgrace. We must never forget what OTHERS have gone through [in ALL wars] in order to afford all of US the relatively peaceful existence we often take for granted.

November 11th is 'Remembrance Day' in Canada and 'Veterans Day' in the United States. [if this day is recognized in other countries - please let me know] All Canadians AND American's should make SURE that they pay their respects by BUYING and WEARING a poppy. November 11th was the day chosen to remember [although we should 'remember' EVERY day] because it was the END of the FIRST World War. [which ended on November 11th, 1918]

In Flanders Field

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved, and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

The Second World War

http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/2WW.htm

Veterans Affairs Canada

http://www.vac-acc.gc.ca/general/sub.cfm?s.../other/remember

Veterans Day - United States

http://www1.va.gov/vetsday/

The history of the 'In Flanders Fields' poem

http://www.geocities.com/~worldwar1/default-poppies.html

Be nice to the old folks. Be respectful. Be thankful. And always remember.

Craig!! :)

[Senna4ever]

I agree! Do americans wear poppies, too?

[1990LS400]

The tradition of wearing poppies on what was formerly called Armistice Day in the U.S. seems to have mostly died out in the central U.S. I remember the tradition well during my childhood in the 1950's when many World War I veterans were alive and active in the small community where I grew up. Poppies were always sold (but mainly given away) by veterans groups on the streets on November 11th.

It is always very nice to hear from our Canadian friends.

Jim

U.S. Army 1971-72

(family from Chatham Ontario)

[steviej]

as a matter of fact, I got my poppy today.

steviej

[Lexusfreak]

I've got mine on my coat as well.