As the family members of our veterans, we hold a special place in our hearts for the parents, siblings, spouses and friends of those who served. We cannot help but think of all the men and women who have gone to fight for this great nation and did not return home.

While we are all guilty of celebrating the unofficial start of summer and encouraging each other to “have a good weekend,” it is important to remember the reason for the holiday. Memorial Day is the day Americans set aside to honor those brave men and women who met tragic ends while defending our freedom. It is our duty to honor their sacrifices, to pray for their families and to bow our heads in recognition of their service.

On National Poppy Day, May 24, American Legion Auxiliary members across the state of Connecticut and the country will be distributing poppies as a tribute to our fallen warriors. We invite residents to stop by and see us and to receive a poppy to wear in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

We must never forget. The poppy, which bloomed on the battlefields of France after World War I, has grown to become an internationally known and recognized symbol of the lives sacrificed in war and the hope that none died in vain.

One hundred percent of all donations received will go directly to help veterans, military and their families here in Connecticut. The American Legion family has called upon Congress to designate the Friday before Memorial Day as National Poppy Day.

To learn more about the auxiliary’s mission or to volunteer, donate or join, visit alaforveterans.org or ctaladept.weebly.com.

Janice Sentivany is public relations chairman for the Department of CT American Legion Auxiliary in Coventry.

Kindness in Real Life is a regular feature in the Times. To submit, email times@theday.com.