Sri Lanka’s Poppy Campaign: Supporting Veterans and Honoring Heroes

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Poppy Flower Remembrance ceremony is scheduled for November 24th. 

A media briefing to inform the public about the event was held today in Colombo by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen's Association.

President of the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen's Association  Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd) said, "In conjunction with the Poppy Flower Remembrance Ceremony, we have produced these poppy flower stickers and are selling them for 50 rupees each. Additionally, we offer poppy flower badges for 250, 150, and 100 rupees, which can be displayed on vehicles."

"We have also distributed these poppy flowers to some schools, where they can be purchased for around 20 rupees or any amount people wish to contribute. The proceeds from the poppy sales support our Ranaviru Home in Katana, which houses about 30 elderly war veterans", he added.

The President of the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen's Association also said that furthermore, they provide medical assistance for surgeries and illnesses, educational scholarships for members' children, eyeglasses, loan facilities, and self-employment training projects.

Addressing the media, Chairman of the Poppy Flower Committee Maj. Gen Udaya Perera (Retd) said, "The poppy concept is significant in Sri Lanka not just as a tradition, but as a symbol of how we honor our soldiers. It is important for all citizens to wear a poppy flower as a tribute to our soldiers. This gesture of respect is more valuable than financial support."