American Legion Auxiliary Unit 37 will host poppy booths at more than 30 businesses throughout Hermiston and surrounding areas until June 1, the day after Memorial Day. The auxiliary uses 100% of poppy donations to help veterans directly.

According to the American Legion, the poppy flourished in Europe after World War I, namely in France and Belgium, where soils became enriched with lime from the rubble left by the war, and the red poppy grew from the dirt and mud. The poppy came to symbolize the blood shed during battle following the publication in December 1915 of the wartime poem, “In Flanders Fields.” Canadian doctor Lt. Col. John McCrae wrote the poem.

The American Legion Auxiliary’s annual Poppy Campaign is the nonprofit organization’s largest fundraiser each year, held just prior to Memorial Day.

Stolz encourages the public to honor the fallen and support the living by wearing a poppy. For names of businesses where poppies may be obtained, call 541-571-5816.