Poppy protocol: There's a right way to wear the tribute

If you haven’t already pinned a poppy to your jacket, there’s a good chance you will be over the next couple of days. With more than 2.3 million Canadian war veterans, the simple way to pay respect dates back to 1919. The first poppies in Canada were made by disabled veterans in 1922.

The poppy became the commemorative flower as a result of Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae’s poem, “In Flanders Fields.” McCrae, who was nspired by poppies blooming in the battle fields, penned the poem which quickly made the red flower synonymous with remembering those who served.

When it comes to proper poppy protocol, the following tips will ensure you pay respect in appropriate fashion.

When to wear?

Traditionally the Royal Canadian Legion has encouraged Canadians to pin the flower to their coat on the last Friday of October until sundown on Nov. 11. Poppies are also commonly worn at special occasions that are directly connected to veterans.

ALSO SEE: Royal Canadian Legion releases digital version of the Remembrance Day poppy

Where to wear?

Your poppy should always be pinned on the left side, over the heart.

Can you make your own or decorate it?

The Royal Canadian Legion states that when it comes to proper poppy etiquette, it’s important that you don’t make your own due to their trademarked nature. The poppy is supposed to be worn exactly how it’s received. It is suggested that rather than applying your own artistic flair, you keep the flower as is at the time of receiving it.

But those pesky pins are so annoying – can I add a Canadian flag pin to the middle to hold it in?

By using the Canadian flag to attach your poppy to your jacket, you’re manipulating it, which is considered disrespectful. If you’re really worried about pricking your finger, the Royal Canadian Legion recommends also grabbing a rubber stopper when you pick up your poppy. Sticker versions of poppies are also available for those who can’t use the traditional format.

ALSO SEE: Remembrance Day tradition: Why we wear poppies

How many poppies should be worn?

While the standard number of poppies worn on the left-hand-side is one, there is no rule around what is the respectable amount. In fact, Queen Elizabeth II often wears several poppies to honour those who have served. Some wear more than one poppy to honour several countries or people.

How do you discard a poppy?

While there isn’t a formal way to discard your poppy, you don’t have to feel guilty if you throw it away. If you attend a Remembrance Day event most people will place their poppy on the cenotaph at the end of the ceremony.

And for those of you who manage to hold onto their poppy from the previous year, it’s completely OK to reuse it. If you’d like, you can still make a donation to those handing out poppies, even if you don’t buy a new one.

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