Montreal poppy campaign launches ahead of Remembrance Day

The Royal Montreal Regiment Association Branch 14 of the Royal Canadian Legion launched its annual poppy campaign Friday morning.

Until Nov. 11, Branch 14 will be trading poppies for donations at Alexis Nihon, Les 5 Saisons and the Metro grocery store in Westmount.

READ MORE: Poppy donation theft at Montreal’s Jewish General Hospital

All proceeds will go to organizations helping Canadian war veterans.

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“It’s important to remember our past,” said Henry Hall, a retired Lieutenant Colonel with the Royal Montreal Regiment.

“It’s important to remember our soldiers who have served and the sacrifices that have been made that allow us to be here today and enjoy the freedoms we’re afforded.”

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Current and former service members were on hand for an opening ceremony.

Westmount mayor Christina Smith also took part.

READ MORE: Montreal marks 75th anniversary of Dieppe Raid with commemorative ceremony

“My two grandfathers served in the Second World War. Many kids don’t know anyone who’s served anymore, so I think it’s a very important tradition,” she told Global News.

Last year, Branch 14 raised $46,000 from their poppy campaign; this year, they hope to raise $47,000.