'I had friends, I lost friends': Veterans reflect on past at launch of annual TTC Poppy Campaign
Canadian veterans, along with students from Davisville Public School, launched the Toronto Royal Canadian Legion’s annual TTC Poppy Campaign at Leslie Subway Station on Friday.
“A red poppy is a symbol of remembrance, the hope for a peaceful future. Poppies are worn as a show of support for the veterans who have served, and those who are still serving,” said Commander John Dufort.
Veterans reminded Toronto residents to wear a poppy — in honour of the men and women who served our country.
“I had friends, I lost friends, and you had to serve your country. There were bad people out there and war was a rough time, but you had to serve your country,” recalled army veteran, Morris AGAMS.
While many reflected on the bravery and patriotism of those who served, navy veteran Richard Ratcliffe called attention to those who stayed behind.
“Don’t forget the people that were left behind that had to carry on their lives themselves until we came back.”
A new initiative this year, designed to help build a tangible link to the past, is called “Poppy Stories.” People can scan their poppies with their smartphones at “poppystories.ca” to read short stories about Canadian veterans who died in service.
The Royal Canadian Legion is also phasing in new biodegradable poppies and wreaths this year to reduce their environmental footprint. It will take a few years to use up all existing stock, but eventually, all poppies used during the campaign will be biodegradable.
The annual poppy campaign runs through to Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.