Prince William County residents, staff, and members of the Board of County Supervisors gathered at the McCoart Government Center for the “Poppies for Patriots” Memorial Day Ceremony on May 20.
The event focused on remembering those who died in service to the country. The tradition of wearing poppies was inspired by Lt. Col. John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields,” which describes poppies growing among soldiers’ graves after World War I battles. Moina Michael later wrote a response poem and committed to always wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance and support for veterans. In 1920, the National American Legion adopted the poppy as the official United States emblem of remembrance.
Deshundra Jefferson, Chair at-Large of Prince William County, addressed attendees during the ceremony. “Tonight, as is our annual tradition in Prince William County, we have come together to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. On this solemn day, we pause to remember those who gave their lives so that we might live in freedom and peace,” Jefferson said. “That is why we gather annually in May, to offer residents an opportunity to remember and honor those who gave their lives during wartime.”
Jesse Citizen, Chair of the Prince William County Veterans Commission and keynote speaker at the event, reflected on the symbolism of poppies: “The poppy is a delicate flower, but its history is forged in iron,” Citizen said. “It first bloomed on the devastated battlefields of Flanders during World War I, where the earth was most scarred and the landscape broken. The crimson poppy was the first sign of returning life. To the soldier, it became a symbol of hope – a quiet reminder that even from absolute depths of sacrifice, beauty and liberty can still grow. As we wear these poppies today, we are wearing a collective promise that we will never let the ‘disturbance’ of their sacrifice be forgotten.”
County Executive Chris Shorter emceed and closed with remarks about national symbols: “The flag is a powerful symbol, and when we see it, we are reminded of the story it carries: a story written through courage, sacrifice and service. Every fold, every stripe and every star reminds us that freedom has never been free. Together, the flag and poppy tell story of Memorial Day: remembering our fallen; honoring their service; renewing our commitment to live lives worthy of their sacrifice.”
The ceremony began with Police Officer Miles Merwin singing “The National Anthem” during Presentation of Colors by Prince William Joint Honor Guard; bugler Donna Flory concluded with “Taps.” Residents unable to attend can watch online or visit McCoart Building through Memorial Day weekend to add names or messages on red poppies displayed on site.
