Share the Story of the Buddy Poppy™

Hey everyone! I hope you all had a fantastic Fourth of July and an even better School of Instruction. As we move into the hotter part of the summer, I hope your Buddy Poppy™ promotion events are heating up, too. There are many vendor events happening right now, which means people are out and about. Find a cool place to set up, and let’s start sharing the Buddy Poppy™ love!

Share the Story

Remember, every Buddy Poppy™ you give out carries a veteran’s story, so don’t be shy. Hand one to every person you see, and let them know how we are Serving America’s Heroes by being the Power of One. Pamphlets are available under Malta that tell the story of the Buddy Poppy™. Keep them on hand so you can help educate others about why this little red flower is so special to us.

Trunk-or-Treat Idea

Trunk-or-treat is coming up quickly, and the VFW Store has Buddy Poppy™ coloring books that explain the story at a young child’s level. Pair them with small four-crayon boxes from Oriental Trading, and you will have a fun alternative to candy that kids will love!

Fall Fest Project Planning

We are also getting closer to Fall Fest, and I hope you have begun planning or working on your Buddy Poppy™ projects. I cannot wait to see the creativity you put into them.

Some people have asked whether I will actively participate in building my auxiliary’s project since I am serving as chairman this year. The answer is no. I do not feel it would be fair for me to help choose the judges after entering a project. Instead, I will step back, let some of my auxiliary sisters take the lead, and cheer them on from the sidelines.

Entry Categories and Reports

Do not forget that there are three categories you can enter:

• Buddy Poppy Promotion

• Memorial

• Decorative

You may enter one category, or you may enter all three. Until then, I look forward to receiving your Buddy Poppy™ reports, and please send lots of pictures! My award criteria matches our National Ambassador’s criteria, so any reports of Buddy Poppy™ promotions will also be forwarded to her. The focus is on the best Buddy Poppy™ promotion to educate the community, so let’s get out there!

Chris Horne

Buddy Poppy™ Chairman