Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz has proclaimed Friday, May 23 as “National Poppy Day” in the city.

“The red poppy became a powerful symbol of remembrance and started with a poem written by a World War I brigade surgeon who was struck by the sights of the Ted flower growing on a ravaged battlefield,” Wdowiasz began her proclamation.

“The Dunkirk American Legion Auxiliary Unit 62 has pledged to remind Americans each year that the men and women who have served and died for their country deserve to be remembered,” the mayor continued. The Dunkirk Legion post will offer poopies for sale at Tops May 23-25 and “all donations received will be used by the American Legion organization for their programs that support veterans, the military community and their families.”

Wdowiasz’s proclamation concluded by “urging all residents and visitors to join in observing this day to honor every service member who has died in the name of liberty, freedom and democracy, while also showing their support for liv8mg veterans, service members and their families.”