May 2, 2017 - VFW Post 8904 and Auxiliary members gathered before the Shelby County Veterans Memorial in recognition of Loyalty Day May 1, 2017.
The event was led by Larry Hume, Quartermaster, and the opening prayer was given by Cynthia Islas, Post Chaplain.
"We like to thank you for taking the time today to remember our country and the sacrifices made to make it great. Today is not just about our military, or veterans it's about all citizens," said Hume.
Hume stated Loyalty Day was first observed in 1921 as "Americanization Day" to counter the communist's May 1 celebration of the Russian Revolution.
"On May 1, 1930, 10,000 members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars staged a rally at New York’s Union Square to promote patriotism, and May 1st evolved into Loyalty Day and the first official observance was in 1959 after the signing of Public Law by President Eisenhower," said Hume.
Hume said Loyalty Day is not an official holiday; however, an observance of which many are not aware.
Sheriff Willis Blackwell placed the memorial wreath on the Veterans Memorial, which was followed by the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance, as well as the playing of TAPS in honor of all who have paid the ultimate price for the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.
In recognition of May Day those present were presented with packets of Flanders Poppy seeds by Sandy Risinger, Auxiliary President, to be planted in their flower beds and gardens.
"We've all heard the Flanders Field, well this is if course in honor and remembrance of the Centennial year of World War I. The United States was just getting into World War I 100 years ago," said Hume.
Hume explained the poppy is commonly known as the Buddy Poppy and it is the official flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
"The red flower represents the blood spilled by Americans in defense of freedoms we celebrate here today," said Hume.
