Photos Courtesy of the Anthem Community Council

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who gave their lives in service to the United States military. For over a decade, Memorial Day ceremonies have been held at the Anthem Veterans Memorial to honor those killed in action. This year, VFW Post 12032, American Legion Post 128, and the Daisy Mountain Veterans, invite the public to participate in additional tributes to our fallen heroes.

Poppy Distribution
On Friday, May 28 and May 29, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12031 will distribute “Buddy” poppies at the Frys’ Food and Drug store located at 39508 W. Daisy Mountain Drive in Anthem. Posts receive their profits from direct sale of the poppies to the public. Donations also are accepted.

The tradition of wearing a red poppy originated in 1915 when a Canadian artillery unit brigade surgeon, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, saw bright red poppies blooming on the war-torn fields where so many soldiers had lost their lives. He was moved to write a poem titled “In Flanders Fields.” The poem was published in a London magazine and later syndicated to publications in other Allied countries. Two separate women, one in France and one in the United States, saw the poem and each was inspired to wear a red poppy in honor of the troops. They each started fundraising campaigns in their respective countries to benefit veterans, their widows and orphans. Their campaigns inspired “Inter-Allied Poppy Day” and started “Poppy Days” worldwide. Today, millions around the world wear poppies on Memorial Day. For more information about the VFW poppy distribution and where the funds may be used, visit vfw.org.

Memorial Day Ceremony
On Memorial Day, Monday May 30, at 9 a.m. at the Anthem Veterans Memorial, the public is invited to attend the annual Memorial Day Ceremony, “A Day of Remembrance.” This event honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans who have fallen while serving our nation. The ceremony is hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12031, American Legion Post 128, and Daisy Mountain Veterans, with support from the Anthem Community Council.

The keynote address will be presented by retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Tim Pasquarelli. Additional ceremony highlights will include the POW/MIA remembrance ceremony and the Voice of America winning speech by Mary Sannapu. The Musical Theater of Anthem Outreach Group will provide program music. The playing of “Taps” and ringing of the Memorial Bell honoring those veterans killed in action, followed by a moment of silence will close the ceremony.

The ceremony is expected to run approximately 45 minutes. Seating and parking are limited and are intended for veterans; attendees are encouraged to arrive early and bring lawn chairs or blankets. The Anthem Veterans Memorial is located at Anthem Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway. To learn more, visit OnlineAtAnthem.com.