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Poppy Day returns to Monroe on Friday to raise funds for vets
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The Poppy Princess for 2017 is Kaylee Hagen, shown above with Monroe Mayor Lewis Armstrong. Poppy Day is Friday. (Photo supplied)
MONROE - Poppy Days will return to Monroe Friday. For more than 90 years, the American Legion Auxiliary has distributed the memorial poppy to remind Americans that millions sacrificed their lives and health to keep the nation strong and free.

Zilmer-Riley American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 84 members and veterans will distribute the bright red poppies, handmade by veterans, who receive payment for each poppy made.

Contributions to the Poppy Program are designated to benefit American veterans throughout the nation to raise money exclusively for hospitalized and needy veterans and their families. Poppy donations are used for the rehabilitation of veterans and the welfare of families and hospitalized service personnel returning home and awaiting discharge who require treatment in service hospitals. There are three veteran's hospitals located in Wisconsin - Madison, Milwaukee and Tomah - that are supported with funds from the distribution of the bright red poppy.

Camp American Legion, near Lake Tomahawk, is where veterans receive needed therapy and rest and benefit from the proceeds of the donations to the poppy fund. Veterans who use these facilities receive personal items, treats, stationery, tote bags, tray favors, postage and many other items.

In December, the Christmas Gift Shop receives benefits from the poppy proceeds. The hospitalized veterans may choose Christmas gifts for their families. The gifts are wrapped and shipped at no cost to the veterans.

As veterans age, there is a rapid increase in the services needed.

Headquarters for Poppy Day will be at the American Legion Post Home, 1627 12th Ave., Monroe. Poppy Day committee members are Frances Wells, Helen Miller and Janet Thompson.