Pin a poppy, reveal a story

By Brandie Majeau
In 2022, The Royal Canadian Legion proudly introduced the “Poppy Stories”
initiative, enhancing their traditional poppy campaign with a modern twist. Someone
pauses and acknowledges the poppy box found at counters and displays across the
country. They drop a donation in the box and delicately pin a poppy on their lapel. They
reflect momentarily and then pull out their phone, opening PoppyStories.ca; the
program invites them to scan their poppy. The screen fades into the face of Edward
G.C. Richards, a man born in Strathmore, Alberta, and his story takes the poppy wearer
on a journey of his life in the Air Force, ultimately unveiling his death as his plane was
shot down over Germany in 1945. He left behind a wife and infant daughter. This is one
story.
This program invites Canadians to engage in a poignant experience by simply
scanning a lapel Poppy with their smartphones. Each scan unveils the story of a fallen
soldier, allowing individuals to connect with their remarkable lives and sacrifices.
Through these powerful narratives, readers will uncover the rich and varied
backgrounds of the courageous men and women who served their country. They will
journey through their origins across Canada, exploring the neighborhoods where they
grew up, the unique family histories that shaped their identities, and the careers they
pursued before answering the call of duty. These stories reveal the passions that
defined their lives and give a glimpse into their humanity. Wearing a poppy serves as a
poignant reminder that behind these symbols of remembrance are genuine individuals
who endured immense struggles and experienced profound loss.
In Canada, the tradition of wearing poppies encourages a collective
remembrance while also generating vital funds for veterans and their families. These
contributions support various essential services, from emergency food and housing
assistance to critical mental and physical health research. The funds collected are
dedicated to helping those in need navigate the complexities of the Veterans Affairs
system, ensuring that aid is provided where it is most needed in the local community.
To unlock the touching tales of these heroes, users can visit the website
poppystories.ca. Here, they will be guided to scan their poppy—there is no traditional
barcode or QR code to be found; the technology recognizes the distinctive shape of the
poppy itself. This engaging platform serves as a bridge, connecting communities to the
sacrifices made by those who wore the uniform.
They were ordinary people who found themselves in extraordinary
circumstances, sacrificing their lives in the pursuit of peace and stability around the
world. It is important to remember this. They were called heroes, but they were also

sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, grandparents, and friends. For a country
anxiously awaiting news from their homeland, these individuals represented hope; to
those who knew them personally, they were their entire world, despite being far away.
Even though the memories of certain wars may seem distant in our historical context,
these events happened not long ago, and their stories have shaped the future for
Canadians today.