New Hamburg Legion Members Raise the Poppy Flag
A tradition that began a few years ago in Wilmot Township has now reached Canada’s capital. Local Royal Canadian Legion members aim to expand it even further next year.
2025 Poppy Campaign Kickoff
On October 31, New Hamburg Legion members, alongside Mayor Natasha Salonen, township councillors, and staff, gathered at the township office and Castle Kilbride in Baden to raise the “Lest We Forget” Poppy Flag. This tradition was started in Wilmot in 2022 by Chief Petty Officer, 2 Class (retired) Donald Eenkooren, a 33-year Canadian Armed Forces veteran.
“As we head into November and Remembrance week, it is a time of year to remember and honour all of our veterans who have fought for our freedom and allow us to live in this amazing country,” Salonen said after receiving the first official poppy of the 2025 campaign from New Hamburg Legion president Brian Miller.
The Poppy Flag was raised to half-mast on the township flagpole to mark the occasion.
Ongoing Remembrance
“I’d also like to remind everyone it’s not the only time of the year we should be remembering our veterans; we should be doing that all year. Please be sure to wear a poppy and donate to the New Hamburg Legion, especially during the poppy campaign.”
This call encourages continuous respect and support for veterans beyond Remembrance Week.
Summary: The tradition of raising the Poppy Flag, started by a Wilmot veteran, now inspires expanded remembrance activities including in Canada’s capital, urging year-round veteran support.