[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 91 (Thursday, May 25, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E729]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           NATIONAL POPPY DAY

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                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 25, 2017

  Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize tomorrow, and 
each Friday before Memorial Day, as National Poppy Day.
  National Poppy Day encourages all Americans to wear a red poppy 
flower as a symbol to remember the fallen and support the living heroes 
who have worn our nation's uniform.
  Following World War I, the red poppy became an internationally 
recognized symbol of the blood shed by those who fought for their 
countries.
  Although it originated almost a century ago, the poppy is just as 
relevant today.
  Throughout our history, countless Americans have laid down their 
lives to protect and defend the country and the people they love.
  America's living veterans have served in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the 
Persian Gulf, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and many other 
conflicts around the world.
  They fought for us and many bare scars that will stay with them for 
life.
  As Americans, we have an obligation to remember the service and 
sacrifice of these brave men and women and their families, who have 
helped build the country we love today.
  By recognizing National Poppy Day, we stand with these brave men and 
women and with the families of all those who did not make it home.
  While we all agree with the sentiment, the symbolism behind the poppy 
is better known around the world than it is here in the United States.
  It is worn in England and Canada, on Remembrance Day, also known as 
Armistice Day and Poppy Day, to commemorate members of the armed forces 
who have died in the line of duty.
  This year the United States commemorates the 100th anniversary of its 
entrance into World War I.
  The American Legion, our largest wartime veterans organization which 
has a track record of promoting National Poppy Day, is approaching its 
100th anniversary.
  There is no more appropriate time for us, as a nation, to recognize 
this historic symbol of service.
  As the proud author of H. Res. 309, a resolution recognizing National 
Poppy Day, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in promoting this 
visible recognition of those who have served our nation in uniform.

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