Huntingdon Auxiliary to Honor Fallen Heroes with Poppy Drive, Memorial Services

HUNTINGDON — As West Tennessee prepares for the upcoming holiday weekend, members of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #47, Huntingdon, are issuing a heartfelt reminder that Memorial Day is about more than just the unofficial start of summer. This May, the local unit is launching its annual Poppy Month initiative to ensure the sacrifices of fallen service members are never forgotten.

The red poppy, famously known for blooming on the battlefields of France following World War I, serves as an international symbol of remembrance. For Cathy A. Corbin and the members of Unit #47, the flower represents a solemn debt of gratitude.

“It is our duty to honor their sacrifices, to pray for their families, and to bow our heads in recognition of their service,” Corbin stated, emphasizing the importance of pivoting from “holiday celebrations” to true reflection on the lives lost in defense of American freedom.

Area residents will have several opportunities to show their support and honor the fallen throughout the month:

Poppy Distribution: On Saturday, May 16, Auxiliary members will be stationed at Cash Saver Grocery and Tractor Supply in Huntingdon from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Poppies will be distributed in exchange for donations. Organizers emphasize that 100% of all donations received during the drive will go directly toward supporting local veterans.

The community is invited to gather on Memorial Day for a series of commemorative events hosted by the American Legion and the Auxiliary:

Flag Presentation: A formal ceremony will take place at Thomas Park in Huntingdon, starting at 11 a.m.

Community Fish Fry: Following the ceremony, a fish fry will be held in the Cash Saver parking lot for residents and veterans alike.

American Legion Auxiliary Unit #47 remains active in the Carroll County community, meeting the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. in the lower level of the Carroll County Courthouse.

For those seeking more information or looking to get involved, the Auxiliary can be reached via their Facebook page, “American Legion Auxiliary, Huntingdon, TN Unit 47,” or by contacting Pamela Davis Moss at 731-415-5171 or Mary Lou Ozee at 731-415-8066 (text only).