American Legion National Commander Jimmie Foster is guest speaker at the dinner being held this year in Des Plaines

Media Advisory

BLOOMINGTON, Ill./EWORLDWIRE/May 21, 2011 --- The color of the little red fabric flower that American Veterans offer around thousands of towns across the U.S. holds fast even after people have forgotten the real significance of the crimsom blossom - and overlooked the reason for Armed Forces Day, but the American Legion is holding fast to the event's importance with a Saturday dinner.

For those who have served in the U.S. military, the story of the bright color of the little red poppy that took root on the graves of brave men and women buried in World War I on Flanders Field in France is a vivid reminder of their sacrifice. Although the tradition of veterans transferring the little flowers to the hands of eager little children in exchange for a few coins tossed into a collection stand continues on, understanding how the fiery bloom became associated with the event goes unknown. The poppy was made the official memorial flower of The American Legion in 1920 and The American Legion Auxiliary in 1921; distributing the poppies became an American Legion national program in 1924.

American Legion National Commander Jimmie Foster is guest speaker at the dinner being held this year in Des Plaines, the home town of past National Commander John Geiger who passed away in 2010. Illinois Department Commander Richard Groharing said, on the occasion of the dinner, "Every day for a veteran is a day of remembrance. We are proud that our National Commander has chosen to share this day with us. As we share our memories and recall others who are not with us, we hope that future generations will recognize the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices of our military and continue to carry the message of Armed Forces Day forward."

According to American Legion Department of Illinois Public Relations Chairman Mark Sides, "John Geiger, who we remember with fondness today, was a pillar of our American Legion and is missed."

While in the area, Commander Foster will be visiting and touring Naval Station Great Lakes, which is celebrating its centennial. A preferred duty station, the facilities conduct training 24 hours a day, seven days a week and attract the finest sailors in the Navy.

MEDIA: To make arrangements for an interview or to cover the event (Des Plaines Elks Club, 495 Lee Street, Des Plaines, Ill., 60016), contact Mark Sides at 309-721-3886.

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CONTACT:
Mark Sides
American Legion
Department of Illinois
Headquarters PO Box 2910
Bloomington, IL 61701
PHONE. 309-721-3886
FAX. 309-796-2518
EMAIL: Mark@MarkSides.com
http://JointheLegion.org

SOURCE: Department of Illinois