It’s that time of year again when the women’s American Legion Auxiliary Unit 141 of Langley distributes poppies in honor of veterans, living and dead, to be worn on Memorial Day.

This year’s Poppy Girl is Hailey Jamie, a 7-year-old first grade student at South Whidbey Elementary School. Her mother is Alicia Clancy, who is also in the auxiliary, and her great grandfather served in the military. Hailey loves singing, dancing and is proud to serve as Poppy Girl. She looks forward to meeting many people as she hands them poppies.

The Poppy has a special meaning for veterans, according to a recent news release.

“It symbolizes the blood sacrificed by our troops during wartime and was written in a poem, ‘In Flanders Field,’ by Lt. Col. John McCrae during World War 1,” the release said. “The American Legion Auxiliary women adopted the poppy as it’s memorial flower in 1921 and ask that everyone wear one on Memorial and Veterans Day. Poppies have been made by veterans and donations received are used to help veterans and their families, making a complete circle, so donations are very appreciated.”

Poppies will be handed out at Mukilteo ferry lot from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 21, and at Clinton’s ferry lot May 22 during the same time period. Look for poppies at The Goose and Red Apple stores Memorial Day weekend.