This year is different, obviously, and the way we normally would celebrate Remembrance Day with giant crowds indoors would be considered earth shattering in the age of this pandemic. But never fear there is a way to celebrate and honour veterans even in the wake of a global pandemic.
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Wear Your Poppy: There are still plenty of places that are distributing poppies with donations, they are at grocery stores and coffee shops. Just looking a little different with no one handing them out.
Coquitlam Poppy Drive: I’m not sure why not more people are talking about this, Coquitlam Legion Branch 263 is doing some major events to help support veterans and show their love. They are having a drive by poppy stand, where you can purchase poppy masks as well! This will be running November 7-8 from 11am – 3pm at 1025 Ridgeway Avenue, Coquitlam.
Coquitlam, Sponsor a Meal: Through the Legion Branch 263 you can also sponsor the cost of a meal to seniors who are veterans for 7.50 per meal (by calling 604-927-4386 and having your credit card at the ready).
Join A Digital Service: Although some events have been completely cancelled this year there are still multiple services that are being displayed virtually. Including Abbotsford, Langley, Maple Ridge, New Westminster and more.
Cut out a Poppy and put it in Your Window: Similar to how we threw hearts in our windows to show appreciation for front line workers. Embellish your windows with poppies to show your love and support for our veterans.
Finally, on a personal note, COVID has opened my eyes to what these veterans and their families must have gone through. Please don’t think I’m trying to compare days of sitting at home with what veterans have experienced, that is not my intention. I’m simply comparing our sacrifices today of not seeing family and friends, wearing masks and working from home to those back then. Those who were drafted against their will or had to watch their loved ones being sent out without any communication once they’ve gone and no clue if they’d ever be home. Our problems seem so much smaller and it just really puts things into perspective.