POPPY DAY APPEAL

Taupo Times, Volume II, Issue 65, 15 April 1953, Page 4

POPPY DAY APPEAL

^ HE Poppy Day Appeal under the auspices of the Returned Services' Associations of the country, made annually on a convenient day shortly before Anzac Day, is this year to take place in Taupo on Saturday next, April 18th. The use of the red poppy as a symboi of remembrance of those who died in their country's defence derived frorn the poppies that flowered on the battle-fields of Flanders, and in New Zealand was associated with an early date after the First World War with the observance of Anzac day on April 25th. That day has a two-fold significance. First and foremost it is the day upon which it is our personal privilege and our national duty to recall to our minds the sacrifice made by those who died for freedom. Secondly, it is the day upon which, considering their contribution to our continuing safety and security, we should recall to our minds our duty to b"e ready and prepared at all times to follow their example. There is no need today to mention that our observance of Anzac Day has reference to the Second World War as well as the First. The extension of the day's significance has come about naturally and inevitably. The association of the Poppy Day Appeal with Anzac Day is a natural and happy one. The use of the funds raised by the sale of poppies for the purpose of assistance to exservicemen and their dependents is mentioned elsewhere in our columns, and it is well known that that use is under the responsible and careful administration of the executives of the Returned Services' Associations. No matter how carefully national provision for the alleviation of the needs-of disabled or distressed ex-servicemen and dependents may be planned there will always be cases worthy of and requiring help that are not covered by act and regulation. The ready . and prompt relief of the necessities of such men and women is our privilege and duty. And the emotions roused in us by the near approach of Anzac Day can find an immediate ex-' pression in the opportunit.v provided by the Poppy Day Appeal to help those who will need our help. The contribution that we are asked to make will mean a great deal to those who benefit. Let us make a special point of remembering to make it on Saturday next.