Lacombe Royal Canadian Legion Branch 79 launched their annual Poppy Campaign this afternoon at City Hall with the presentation of the First Poppy to Mayor Grant Creasey.

President of the Legion, Barbara Burnett was on hand for the ceremony along with Legion member John Mellon, who placed the poppy onto Creasey.

Although Burnett is grateful with all the support in the community, she said she was surprised with how many businesses refused to take part in selling them.

“Some of the locations in Lacombe don’t let us put our poppy boxes in their businesses. Some businesses, they have shops that are out back and we’ve had theft in previous years, so maybe that’s the reason.”

Lacombe Legion holds the presentation each year and as the new mayor, Creasey said he feels blessed to be a part of it.

“It’s an honour to receive this symbolic First Poppy on behalf of council and the people of Lacombe. It’s a well-respected visual reminder of all those who sacrificed on our behalf and I wear it with pride.”

Creasey said he wishes to see everyone in Lacombe wearing one at some point.

“I hope everyone purchases at least one, hopefully a few, and wear them every single day with pride.”

Poppies can be purchased at multiple locations around the City, including all the groceries stores.