The third-graders at Flandreau Elementary were busier than normal. . . And you can enjoy their talents at many local businesses as Memorial Day draws near.
The local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, VFW Post 3351, sponsored their third annual Buddy Poppy Poster Contest, as part of the community’s preparations for Memorial Day.
“Using art is just a great way to get young people engaged, and really thinking about the cost of freedom. And Mr. Swatek and his staff couldn’t have been more supportive,” said Bridget Flannery, Commander of the local post.
The third-graders received some suggested themes to help get their creative juices flowing – and then they went to town. Members of VFW Post 3351 and their Auxiliary have voted on the entrants, and the winning posters were announced at an assembly on the 17th of May. Earning third place and $10 in Flandreau Bucks was Lily Arnold. Emma Armstrong grabbed second place honors, along with $20 in Flandreau Bucks. And top prize went to Amelia Pieper who won $30 in Flandreau Bucks. “Amelia’s poster is just beautiful. Her talents speak for themselves,” commented Flannery. All of the third graders received a book mark with the poem “In Flanders Field” on one side, and a brief history of the Buddy Poppy on the other, a gift of VFW Post 3351.
The posters complement the VFW’s annual Buddy Poppy distribution, which will be held Friday and Saturday, May 25th and 26th. Luther Dappen has been the leader of the Buddy Poppy distribution event for years for the local VFW Post. Flannery explains: “He does an amazing job with this project. Luther’s passion for service – and his dedication to the disabled veterans who make the poppies, and to those who benefit from the donations we receive from them – well, it’s just a privilege to witness.” All donations received from the Buddy Poppies stay local, and support veterans and their families in Moody County.
The posters will be on display through Memorial Day.
Poppies will be available for purchase via a donation at First National Bank, The Flandreau Bakery, Maynard’s, Dollar General and Tractor Supply. The Buddy Poppy is a flower closely related to the VFW and symbolic of the bloodshed during World War I. They are worn as a reminder of those who fought and died for America and as a symbol of sacrifice.
Community members are asked to give what they can and wear the poppies in honor of those who served and continue to serve our country.
