VFW recognizes local stores for Buddy Poppy support

June 17, 2012 at 11:40 a.m. | Updated June 17, 2012 at 11:40 a.m.

VFW Post 2657 honored three local stores for their support of the Buddy Poppy program Friday. From left: VFW quartermaster Charles Williams, C&R Market manager Chris Garrett, Walmart manager Bob Mays, Moser's manager Brian Williamson and VFW post commander Sonny Sparks.
VFW Post 2657 honored three local stores for their support of the Buddy Poppy program Friday. From left: VFW quartermaster Charles Williams, C&R Market manager Chris Garrett, Walmart manager Bob Mays, Moser's manager Brian Williamson and VFW post commander Sonny Sparks.

The VFW presented plaques to three local businesses in recognition of their continued support of the Buddy Poppy program, a time-honored program that supports veterans and their families, Friday afternoon.

C&R, Walmart and Moser's give VFW members a space by the door for their Buddy Poppy drive. The program, inspired by John McCrae's famous poem "In Flander's Field," started after WWI when VFW posts decided to have disabled and needy veterans assemble paper poppies. The poppies were then sold to the public, with proceeds going back to those veterans and their families.

VFW Post 2657 quartermaster Charles Williams said it was important for the VFW to recognize these businesses for helping them reach the community.

"By frequenting these establishments, I noticed awards and certificates, but never saw anything from the VFW," said Williams. "They've been supporting Buddy Poppies for a long time, and they needed to be recognized."

To help the tornado-stricken people of Dumas and surroundings, donations can be made to the Delta Area Disaster Relief Fund, care of the Delta Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 894, Dumas, AR, 71639, or through the Arkansas Community Foundation, 700 S. Rock St., Little Rock, AR, 72202.