FRANKLIN
In advance of Veterans Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11, the Sgt. Jayton D. Patterson VFW Post 4411 and its Ladies Auxiliary will be collecting money next Friday through Sunday, Nov. 7-9, to help disabled veterans. In addition to asking for donations, the members will also distribute what are called “Buddy” Poppies.

The flower has long been a symbol of those men and women who fought and died in service to their country. Veterans of Foreign War posts in America have been reportedly distributing the flowers since 1922.

“They’re made by hospital-bound veterans,” said Howard Edsall, co-chair of this year’s campaign. “We buy them every year. It’s a VA-sponsored program, and all VFWs are required to buy them.”

The post will purchase 1,000 flowers, sometimes 2,000 a year.

“We buy what we think we can distribute,” he added. “We ask if you’d like to help a veteran. We’re not allowed to technically sell them.”

There’s no set price for contributions, and often veterans will give the paper flowers away.

So far, post members are scheduled to appear at the Wal-Mart, ABC store and Tractor Supply. Edsall anticipates there will be several other places as well.

Post Commander Kevin Meyers has stated that VFW By-laws require the money collected be used to help veterans, such as those who make the flowers or who are disabled or in need, as well as their surviving spouses and children. Edsall said he was once a beneficiary when he needed $300 to rent a car to visit his dying father.

Post 4411 has been participating in collection and poppy program for 30 years, Meyers said.

He added that post members will serve as the Color Guard at next Saturday’s Rhythm in Blue Jazz Ensemble concert in Franklin High School. Presented by The Tidewater News, the performance starts at 7 p.m.

Post 4411 will also participate in the Sedley Veterans Day Parade.

Anyone who wants to give further to aid veterans can send their checks to:

Sgt. Jayton D. Patterson VFW Post 4411

3385 Beaver Dam Road

Franklin, VA 23851.

For more information, call the post at 569-8169 or Meyers at 705-5189.