You may not have realized that your poppy tells a bigger story than you thought.
Not only is it the symbol for remembrance, this year the Royal Canadian Legion has also added something else to the mix. You can now visit poppystories.ca on your smartphone and scan your poppy to be introduced to a fallen soldier and their story. Details include their contributions to the war, as well as glimpses into their personal lives.
You’ll meet individuals like Frederick Lee (19 November 1895 – 21 August 1917), a first-generation Canadian farmer who became one of the first Chinese Canadians to fight in battle after enlisting in 1916.
And Dorothy Mary Varwood Baldwin (10 October 1891 – 30 May 1918), born in Toronto, Ont. At 25 years old she enlisted as a nurse in the Canadian Army Medical Corps, serving in both the UK and France before her death during an enemy air raid at the hospital where she was stationed.
Or Henry Louis Norwest (1 May 1884 – 18 August 1918), a member of the Métis Nation who was a ranch hand and rodeo performer before the First World War. He enlisted in 1915 and became one of Canada’s most famous snipers in the conflict.
Each brief history is just a few sentences, along with a photo. This initiative is a unique way to honour the faces behind the war effort. Don’t have your poppy yet? There’s an option to “proceed without scanning”.
Poppies are now being sold at many major retailers and locations in the community, with funds raised supporting Canadian veterans and their families in need. To find out where to purchase your poppy contact your local legion branch or visit Legion.ca.
By: Emily Nakeff, Editor
