'Pop Over For A Poppy' Drive-Through Event At Southold American Legion

SOUTHOLD, NY — Friday, May 23 marks National Poppy Day, according to the American Legion Auxiliary— and a special event has been organized in Southold to honor the nation's heroes.

The Ladies Auxiliary of the Southold American Legion is hosting a drive-through event, "Pop Over for a Poppy," for the distribution of poppies. The event takes place Friday through 5 p.m. at the Griswold Terry Glover Southold American Legion Post 803, located at 51655 Main Road.

The poppies are free, but all donations received will be used exclusively to support veterans.

Those who would like a poppy should use the Tuckers Lane entrance for drive-through distribution.

On the Friday before Memorial Day, individuals wear a red poppy to honor the fallen and support the living who have worn our nation's uniform.

"The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice, worn by Americans since World War I to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedoms," the American Legion Auxiliary's national page said. "Led by the American Legion Auxiliary, each year members of The American Legion Family distribute poppies with a request that the person receiving the flower make a donation to support the future of veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with medical and financial needs."

Auxiliary member Claire Kennedy of the Southold American Legion Auxiliary, said. "I think it's important to keep this program alive. Our Legion Halls are closing all around, and it's very important to educate our upcoming generations on the sacrifices their families have made in the past."

On Saturday, members of the Southold American Legion Auxiliary will also be distributing poppies at the Southold IGA, King Kullen in Cutchogue, and the Mattituck Marketplace.

And on Monday, Memorial Day, volunteers will walk the Southold Memorial Day parade route and distribute poppies.