The Region of Durham has launched its 2026 Poppy Campaign with the annual ceremony at Regional Headquarters in Whitby, held on October 30. Veterans, Legion presidents and representatives, elected officials, staff and community members gathered for the shared act of remembrance and gratitude.
The ceremony marks the start of the annual campaign leading up to Remembrance Day. The campaign was established by Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer John Henry in 2023 and has become a yearly Regional tradition, bringing together members of the Veteran community, local Royal Canadian Legion branches, Regional staff and community leaders.
As part of the ceremony, the Poppy Flag was raised outside Regional Headquarters, where it will fly until November 12 as a visible symbol of remembrance, gratitude and respect. The ceremony opened with a moment of silence in memory of the four Canadian Armed Forces members who died during a training exercise near Wainwright, Alberta.
The event also highlighted the work of Royal Canadian Legion branches throughout Durham Region. Beyond leading remembrance activities, Legion volunteers provide advocacy, programs, services and assistance that help Veterans and their families access the support they need.
“On behalf of our Legion branches and Veterans across Durham Region, we want to thank John Henry and the Region of Durham for their continued commitment to remembrance,” says Gloria Eng, Zone F1 Poppy Chair. “This annual ceremony has become a meaningful tradition that brings our community together to honour the service and sacrifice of Canada’s Veterans and active service members.”
Residents are encouraged to support the Poppy Campaign by wearing a poppy, attending local Remembrance Day ceremonies, visiting a local Legion branch or contributing to the National Poppy Fund.
Source: Region of Durham
Illustration created for AllAboutDurham; not a photograph of a real place, person, or event.
Source: Region of Durham
Featured image: illustration, not documentary photography. Original editorial illustration created for AllAboutDurham; not a photograph of a real ceremony, person, or place.
