Delaware County Going Red For WWI Veterans

MEDIA, PA – Delaware County is going red in remembrance of World War I and the men and women who served in it.

Delaware County Council and Destination Delco – Delaware County’s Tourism Bureau – is announcing a county-wide initiative to plant poppy seeds across the county in honor of World War I veterans.

World War I is often referred to as "America’s forgotten war," despite more Americans giving their lives in WWI than during the Korean and Vietnam Wars combined.

Millions of men and women responded to the call 100 years ago, including 280 from Delaware County who made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.

The red poppies that grew over the graves of fallen soldiers has become a symbol to recognize and honor World War I veterans.

Delco Officials, horticultural students from the Williamson School of the Trades, and gardeners from the Penn State Master Gardeners Program will plant poppy seeds outside of Destination Delco, 1501 N. Providence Road, Media at 1 p.m. Tuesday to kick off the initiative.

The groups will encourage county businesses, organizations, schools and residents to do the same and "Turn Delaware County Red" for WWI veterans.

Packets of red poppy seeds are being provided by the Destination Delco, and are being distributed to homes, historic properties and gardens throughout Delaware County for planting in early spring for a summer and late-summer bloom.

Image via Paul Reynolds, Flickr Commons