Across communities in South Dakota and around the country, veterans organizations will mark Buddy Poppy Day on Friday, May 15, continuing a tradition that has honored military service members for more than a century.

The red crepe-paper poppies, assembled by disabled and needy veterans, are distributed annually by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Auxiliary. Donations collected during Buddy Poppy drives support veterans assistance programs, rehabilitation efforts, and financial aid for service members and their families.

The Buddy Poppy tradition dates back to World War I and was inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields,” written after battles in Belgium where bright red poppies grew among the graves of fallen soldiers. The flower later became a symbol of remembrance for those who died in military service.

Nationally, the VFW designates the Friday before Memorial Day as Buddy Poppy Day, encouraging Americans to wear the flower as a sign of respect and remembrance.

This Friday, volunteers in Madison will  be at Lewis, Sunshine Foods, Classic Corner, and the One Stop from 9am to 5pm. Poppy’s can be purchased by cash or check.