Distributing poppies is one of the best ways to publicly represent the American Legion Auxiliary. The iconic image of the poppy reminds non-members of the importance of supporting our veterans. Since 1921, ALA has reminded the sacrifice of service to our country veterans have made.

The making of the poppy provides the veteran with therapeutic time and a small stipend for each poppy made. Each unit that purchases poppies are supporting the veterans indirectly. Please use the Poppy Order Form listed on the page. Instructions for ordering are on the form.

Traditionally, units distribute poppies Memorial Day or Veterans Day. With National Poppy Day the Friday before Memorial Day, these dates would seem logical. Please be creative in your unit’s approach to distribute poppies. Maybe you could hand them out at an elementary school, or teach a class on how to make a poppy. The students could compete in a poster contest about poppies. In taking a different approach, maybe have them paint the bottom of a water bottle to look like poppies. Another option might be to have a contest among the older students to memorize the poem, “In Flanders Field.”

Receipts from the poppy distribution must be used to help veterans, active-duty service members, or their families. Each unit needs to send a check to the Department for 15% of the previous year’s receipts no later than December 1st. Additional resources can be found on the National website and, “The Poppy Guide.” The more poppies distributed, the more we have as the American Legion Auxiliary to support our veterans.

Thank you for all you accomplish for our veterans, active-duty, and families!