It makes me proud to pin it on each day, for 11 days, starting November 1st, each and every year.

I think about my late father, George, and how proud he was to have served in The Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II.  I think about my late uncle, my father's brother, Gilbert Carnie, who served on the ground, overseas, in World War II and in the Korean War as a member of the Royal Regina Rifles.

I think about the families and friends of the 43,000 Canadian men and women who died during World War II.  I think about the Canadians who lost loved ones in other battles, most recently, the fight against terrorism.

It was almost 100 years ago, when World War I ended on November 11th, 1918, and many around the world referred to it as "the war to end all wars".  It didn't work out that way.  

By the way, donations to the poppy fund go to people who need our help; Canadian people who have served or are serving in the Canadian Forces.

I hope you make a donation.  I hope you are proud to wear a poppy.