Volunteers sew thousands of poppies for Dartmouth Remembrance Day tribute

In Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, a dedicated group of volunteers is ensuring a cherished Remembrance Day tradition continues to grow, sewing thousands of handcrafted poppies by hand.

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Oh, we can get through as a team a lot of poppies every week, and we really enjoy doing it.

What began in 2020 with a goal of creating 2,000 poppies for the cenotaph at Sullivan's Pond has evolved into a year-round effort. Now, six years later, volunteers are working tirelessly to repair and create poppies, aiming to reach 15,000 for this year's ceremony. This initiative coincides with the Royal Canadian Legion's centennial anniversary.

Lyn Kilroy, a volunteer, described the process as enjoyable and productive, stating, "Oh, we can get through as a team a lot of poppies every week, and we really enjoy doing it." She also expressed pride in her involvement, adding, "Oh, I feel proud and I bring my grandchildren down every year to take a look at what nanna does and it’s very rewarding to be part of this team and this project."

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Oh, I feel proud and I bring my grandchildren down every year to take a look at what nanna does and it’s very rewarding to be part of this team and this project.

Residents of Oakwood Terrace, a nursing home in Dartmouth, are also key participants. For Chantal Beaulieu, the recreation programmer, the project offers more than just a way to honor veterans; it fosters a sense of community. "We continue this project because it’s so meaningful to so many and it’s important that as a community effort that we remember together the sacrifices, because we are so blessed to live in a country we enjoy freedom and peace," she said.

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We continue this project because it’s so meaningful to so many and it’s important that as a community effort that we remember together the sacrifices, because we are so blessed to live in a country we enjoy freedom and peace.

David Crocker, president of the Atlantic Canadian Red Ensign History Association, emphasized the Legion's role in supporting remembrance and understanding Canada's military history. Beaulieu looks ahead, hoping the project will continue to expand, aiming for 20,000 poppies in the future. "I think we’ll reach it. I just want to continue growing it, but also finding new ways to share it," she stated.

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I don’t ever want to take that for granted.