The Reason Behind the Leaves on Remembrance Day Poppies

Introduction to Remembrance Day Poppies

Remembrance Day, observed annually on November 11, is a solemn occasion to honor those who died in military service, as well as the many sacrifices made during conflicts. A vibrant symbol of Remembrance Day is the red paper poppy, which traces its origins back to the poem 'In Flanders Fields' by John McCrae. The Royal British Legion (RBL) has been at the vanguard of promoting and distributing poppies to commemorate the fallen soldiers.

The Evolution of the Poppy Emblem

The original version of the poppy emblem, designed to mimic the natural flower, did not feature a leaf. However, with the rise of sprays made from individual poppies to sell at Remembrance events, a leaf was introduced in the 1960s. This addition was based on the traditional practice of making floral sprays, which were a significant part of the memorial processions.

As the demand for poppy sprays grew, the leaf became an optional extra. It was first offered as part of the standard emblem in 1970. By 1984, the demand for leafs had skyrocketed, reaching 12 million per year. To meet this demand, The Poppy Factory began producing leaves as a mass-produced item but issued them separately to ensure they could be easily attached to the main poppy.

The Poppy Factory's Role

The Poppy Factory, established in 1921, is a vital organization that supports disabled veterans and serves as a factory for producing the poppy emblems. Over the years, the factory has had to adapt to meet the growing needs of the community, especially during the peak weeks leading up to Remembrance Day. The production of poppy leaves was one such adaptation.

Poppy Leaves Become the Norm

By 1995, the popularity of the leaf had become so widespread that the Poppy Factory began offering poppies with leaves as a standard feature. This change allowed for a more uniform and visually appealing emblem, enhancing the overall impact of the Remembrance Day symbols.

Conclusion

The introduction of the leaf onto Remembrance Day poppies is a reflection of the evolving traditions and practices associated with this meaningful and poignant symbol. As the poppy continues to be a potent reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers, the leaf serves as a touchstone for those connecting with this heritage.

For the millions of people who wear poppies each year, the presence of the leaf adds a personal touch, making the emblem even more significant. Whether worn as a traditional poppy or one adorned with a leaf, the symbol remains a powerful way to honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed.