Memorial Day is a day of remembrance; a day when we honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Poppies are a symbol of the sacrifice and courage of our service members. It was during World War I that Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae wrote a poem, “In Flanders Fields“, reflecting and commemorating the sacrifice and loss of life.

It was Moina Belle Michael, a Georgia schoolteacher, whose perseverance convinced a nation to accept the poppy as symbol of remembrance.

So as we approach Memorial Day, how will you remember the fallen? Here are a few ideas:

1. I love the beauty in symbolism displayed in the Missing Man Table tradition. Need a read along companion book? Try this book by Margot Theis Raven, my favorite!

2. Make some poppies with your students (or family). One example is of a poppy field after reading A Poppy is to Remember.

3. Dedicate a #POPPYINMEMORY through USAA. Or, experience a poppy field in VR while learning about the causalities of war while on the USAA site.

More ideas can be found on The Compassionate Maker: Patriotism/Appreciation LibGuide.