Marshalltown honors veterans as Poppy Days kick off

MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa — It may not be Memorial Day just yet, but starting Thursday Marshalltown is already honoring those who have served the country.

Marshalltown Mayor Joel Greer signed a proclamation earlier this month declaring May 16th, 17th, and 18th “Poppy Days” in the city.

Poppy Days originated after World War I and it’s a tradition celebrated in several countries. The red color in the poppy flower represents the blood shed by those who fought in war and those who continue to fight.

Starting Thursday, the American Legion will be giving poppies to Marshalltown residents who provide a donation. They will be in businesses across town, including Hy-Vee and Fareway.

Councilmember and Mayor Pro-Tem Mike Ladehoff said that Marshalltown is the ideal place for a tradition like this because the Iowa Veterans Home is located in the city.

“[In] Marshalltown especially, if you go up Main Street, you’ll see pictures of veterans on the light poles. We’re very veterans oriented,” he said.

The Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown is the fifth largest in the county with 400 residents. Four of them served in World War II.

The money raised during Poppy Days will go towards supporting these veterans.

The Iowa Veterans Home has 750 staff members. Commandant Todd Jacobus said the facility can house up to 447 residents, but they would need more staff to do so. For more information on work opportunities at the Iowa Veterans Home, click here .

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