Starting the week of May 14th, windows along Le Mars’ business district will be decorated with patriotic posters created by sixth grade students from Gehlen Catholic School, as part of the Le Mars post of the American Legion’s Poppy Poster contest.
35 different entries were made in the contest, with Legion Auxiliary members judging the posters based on appeal, artistic ability, and neatness. Congratulations to Harper Gries, who came in first place and was the overall winner of the contest! Savannah Hitchler also came in first place, while Kalen Paulson and Ady Blair came in second place, and Carson Loutsch and Bryce Thoms came in third place. Gries’ winning poster is currently in competition at the district contest.
Poppy Day, to be celebrated this year on May 14th, is a day designated to honor the men and women who have served or are serving in the United States armed forces. Since 1921, the poppy has been the memorial flower of the American Legion Auxiliary. It was on the French battlefields that many poppies bloomed; it was here that it became a symbol of the tragedy of war and renewal of life following World War I. According to the American Legion, the red on the flower stands for courage and the green leaves remind us of the torn bodies.
Gehlen Catholic School said in a press release that the students were glad to show their support and express their gratitude to all veterans for the sacrifices they made and continue to make for our country.
