Remembrance in the UK is very different to how it was 100 years ago, but the poppy remains as an enduring poignant symbol of hope. They ordered nine million poppies for the first ‘Poppy Appeal' in November 1921 to help veterans with housing and jobs – the poppies sold out almost immediately. The idea spread to the UK and the newly formed Royal British Legion adopted it as an emblem. The poem in turn inspired an American academic Moina Michael to adopt the poppy in memory of those who had fallen in the war and campaign for it to be adopted as an official symbol of Remembrance. WATCH: The royals singing during Remembrance Day 2019Ĭanadian doctor Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was moved by the poppies and inspired to write his now-famous poem In Flanders Fields. The exception, however, were the bright red Flanders poppies, which flourished in the destruction, growing in their thousands. The countryside was so destroyed that beautiful landscapes turned to mud and nothing could grow. The history of the flower as a symbol dates back to WWI, during which most of the fighting took place in Western Europe. Poppies are worn as a show of support for the Armed Forces community. MORE: 23 fun face masks for kids - where to buy face coverings for children online Why is a poppy worn for Remembrance? RELATED: Where to get a stylish face mask - we've found the best ones online It’s an event that seeks to unite across faiths, backgrounds and cultures to remember in their own personal way. It acknowledges innocent civilians who have lost their lives in conflict and acts of terrorism. Remembrance honours the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces, veterans and their families – those who serve to defend our democratic freedoms and way of life. This year, it falls on November 11 and while the pandemic means it won’t be possible to hold public gatherings to honour the day, something we can all do to show our recognition, is wear a face mask with a poppy on the day – and indeed in the run-up during the period of Remembrance this autumn. Every year, on the second Sunday of November, people across the UK unite in commemorating Remembrance Sunday.
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