WWII Veteran Ted Maskell given a poppy at the Kamloops Legion (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

POPPY CAMPAIGN

First poppies given to Mayor Christian and WWII veteran

Oct 25, 2022 | 4:15 PM

KAMLOOPS — The first poppy of the 2022 campaign was given to Mayor Ken Christian Tuesday morning (Oct. 25) at the Kamloops legion.

The first poppy given to a veteran was pinned on the lapel of World War II veteran Ted Maskell who served with the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the war.

“My parents took me to Britain just before the war and I joined the RAF in 1944. I spent most of the war in training,” said Maskell.

Maskell would go on to serve with the RAF until 1956, including time in the Middle East and during the Berlin airlift, before joining the Royal Canadian Air Force in ’58.

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Now well into his 90s, Maskell continues to pass down his firsthand experience of history.

“Very glad that I’ve had the honour of making a few statements and telling people how important November 11th is. I do find that quite a few people do remember,” said Maskell.

All the funds raised in Kamloops during the poppy campaign are directed right back into the community.

“It’s nice to have that money so we can give back to the community. It doesn’t stay with us, none of those funds stay with the legion, it all goes to to the community and veterans programs,” said Daniel Martin, Kamloops Legion President.

The official poppy campaign will begin in earnest on Friday (Oct. 28) across Canada, as people will start seeing poppies on lapels around the city.

“We also have to remember that freedom is not free — somebody has to fight and protect our country. It’s a recognition, basically saying that I recognize and remember the sacrifice of many on the battlefield and peace-keeping all over the world. It is a token saying thank-you very much for your service,” added Martin.