The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was the first organization to promote a nationwide distribution of poppies assembled by disabled and needy veterans. Allow me to outline the history:

In 1921, the Franco-American Children’s League conducted a nationwide distribution of Poppies made in France, for the benefit of children in the war-torn areas of France and Belgium. The inspiration came from Col. John McCrae’s poem, "In Flanders Fields."

In May 1922, the VFW of the United States conducted a nationwide distribution of poppies made in France. This was after the dissolution of the Franco-American Children’s League, and in response to an appeal by Madame Guerin, "the poppy lady from France."

In the spring of 1923, the American Legion conducted its first nationwide sale of poppies made by a French manufacturer. Later that year, the VFW evolved the idea which resulted in the VFW "Buddy Poppy" fashioned by disabled and needy veterans who were paid to assemble the flowers.

In February 1924, the VFW registered the name "Buddy” with the U.S. Patent Office, and still holds all trademark rights in the name "Buddy" under the classification of artificial flowers.

Since May 1924, the VFW has annually conducted a "Buddy" Poppy campaign.

You don't have to be a member of the VFW to "honor the dead by helping the living." Attend a service, make a donation, shake a hand... just be sure to remember the veterans, past and present, and the various prices paid to make life in these United States so good!!