Prince William County to Host “Poppies for Patriots” Memorial Day Tribute on May 19

Prince William County will host the second annual “Poppies for Patriots,” a Memorial Day tribute on Tuesday, May 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Sean T. Connaughton Community Plaza, located at the Prince William County Government Center, 1 County Complex Court in Woodbridge. The event invites the community to come together in remembrance of those who gave their lives in military service. 

Participants will be invited to take part in this shared tribute by writing the name of a loved one or someone they know who died in combat, or a message of support, on a red paper poppy. Children can also take part by coloring poppies to add to the display, creating a collective expression of remembrance from across the community. The poppies will be placed on a “poppy wall,” forming a powerful visual tribute. The display will be moved indoors to the atrium of the James J. McCoart Administration Building, where visitors can continue adding poppies in the days leading up to Memorial Day. 

The red poppy became a symbol of remembrance after Canadian doctor Lt. Col. John McCrae wrote the poem “In Flanders Fields” in 1915 during World War I. Inspired by the poem, American Moina Michael began wearing a red poppy to honor fallen soldiers and promote remembrance. 

Today, red poppies stand as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and service, offering a simple but meaningful way for communities to pause, reflect and remember. 

“Poppies for Patriots” is free and open to the public. Residents are encouraged to attend, take part in this shared tribute and help ensure that the legacy of those who served and sacrificed is never forgotten. 

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