To the editor,

As a member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 121 I hold a special place in my heart for the parents, siblings, spouses, and friends of those who served. I can’t help but think of all the men and women who have gone to fight for this great nation and didn’t return home.

While we are all guilty of celebrating the unofficial start of summer and encouraging each other to “have a good weekend,” it is important to remember the reason for the holiday: Memorial Day is the day Americans set aside to honor those brave men and women who met tragic ends while defending our freedom. It is our duty to honor their sacrifices, to pray for their families, and to bow our heads in recognition of their service.

On National Poppy Day®, May 23, 2025, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 121 will be distributing poppies as a tribute to our fallen warriors. We invite River Falls residents to stop by and see us from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, May 23 at Family Fresh, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24 at Ptacek’s and Ace Hardware to receive a poppy in exchange for a donation to wear in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We must never forget. The poppy, which bloomed on the battlefields of France after World War I, has grown to become an internationally known and recognized symbol of the lives sacrificed in war and the hope that none died in vain. One hundred percent of donations received will go directly to help veterans, military, and their families.

Margaret Larson

ALA Poppy Chairman

Fletcher-Pechacek Unit 121