Launch of the 2015 National Poppy Campaign
His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada and patron of The Royal Canadian Legion, hosted the 2015 National Poppy Campaign ceremony at Rideau Hall.
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-003
"Each year when I wear the poppy on my lapel, close to my heart, I wear it with a deep sense of humility and gratitude," said the Governor General. "I wear it for the thousands of men and women who died or were wounded in war. I wear it in the hopes of a peaceful world, where such sacrifices need not be made."
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-007
Larry Murray, Grand President of The Royal Canadian Legion, also delivered remarks.
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-008
His Excellency received the symbolic first poppy of the campaign from Comrade Tom Eagles, Dominion President of The Royal Canadian Legion. Poppies will be available to the general public beginning Friday, October 30, 2015.
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-009
The Governor General then presented a poppy to Mr. Eagles.
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-011
Their Excellencies are accompanied by Mr. Murray (left) and Mr. Eagles (right).
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-012
His Excellency also presented the poppy to Canadian veterans who attended the ceremony.
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-014
Each year, the poppy blossoms on the lapels and collars of more than 18 million Canadians.
Thu, 10/22/2015 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG01-2015-0340-018