(Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

POPPY CAMPAIGN

Annual poppy campaign begins, raising money for veteran services

Oct 28, 2022 | 4:04 PM

KAMLOOPS — Canadians will be showing their support for veterans over the next two weeks as the yearly poppy campaign is underway.

The small gesture of recognition is felt deeply by service men and women.

“It’s a token saying thank you very much for your service. It’s important to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, which is their lives. I think it’s important people realize that. It really does warm my heart when I see so many thousands of people walking down the street and we see them wear the poppy. All of us veterans really, really appreciate it,” said Kamloops Legion President Daniel Martin.

Brian Kallert spent 37 years with the RCMP, time which also saw the veteran down range in Jordan where he trained foreign police forces. Every year, he volunteers to help the legion by manning a table.

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: John Rustad's big gamble

5h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: Eby could learn something from Horgan, who bridged the ideological divide between urban and rural B.C.

Nov 22, 2024

B100's Basics for Babies

B-100's Basics for Babies 2024

Nov 22, 2024

“It’s because of the veterans and the people who have served their country, that people get to enjoy the life that they have. The least we can do is to volunteer and be able to give them an opportunity for people to show their appreciation by wearing a poppy. It’s only one week of the year,” said Kallert.

With COVID-19 restrictions beginning to ease, Kallert hopes the community will be out in force this year to remember all those who came before us.

“Have the youth of our country, which are our future leaders. They are the ones that are going to see what the veterans brought forward and they can participate in the parade, the ceremonies. And learn a new aspect of respect for the people who have gone passed before us,” added Kallert.

All the funds raised during this year’s poppy campaign will remain in Kamloops used for services to help veterans and the community.

“The funds go to senior veteran programs. We support the PTSD dogs, we support cadets every year because they help us out during the poppy campaign. Also goes towards Manor House and Cockrell House, which are places where veterans that are hurt go there for rehab and medical equipment,” said Martin.

The Remembrance Day ceremony will return to Riverside Park this year on November 11.