It looks like there won’t be any poppies being handed out this year by local cadets.
While the Royal Canadian Legion’s 2020 Poppy Campaign is underway, members of the 295 MacPherson Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron say they will not be assisting with dispersing poppies due to COVID-19 and they also won’t be taking part in any Remembrance Day service.
They say the decision comes from National Headquarters in Ottawa and it was not made lightly.
In a statement, the Squadron says while they recognize the importance of Remembrance and the work done through the Legion, the safety and wellbeing of its cadets, staff and officers are of the utmost importance.
“Cadet Squadrons and Corps will instead take part in a number of virtual Remembrance events, focusing on safely coming together to show our respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and to learn about the history of Remembrance Day traditions,” the statement read.
The group adds its cadets and staff still look forward to being able to support Branch #117, who has been the squadron’s primary sponsor for over 75 years.
In that time, the Legion has provided financial backing and shown the cadets what Remembrance Day is truly about.