Royal Canadian Legion members have marked the beginning of this year’s National Poppy Campaign with ceremonial presentations to local government leaders in Campbell River and Comox.

Members of Campbell River Legion Branch 137 visited City Hall to present Mayor Kermit Dahl with a poppy ahead of Remembrance Day.

In Comox, Branch 160 president Al Astles and vice-president Glen Sweetman presented the community’s ceremonial first poppy to Mayor Nicole Minions.

The presentations are part of a longstanding tradition that begins nationally with the first poppy being presented to Canada’s Governor General. The ceremony is then repeated with provincial lieutenant governors and local government leaders throughout the country.

Governor General Louise Arbour received the first poppy of the 2026 campaign during a ceremony at Rideau Hall last week.

The National Poppy Campaign officially began Saturday, October 24, and continues through Remembrance Day on November 11.

Poppies are now available by donation at participating businesses and other locations throughout the region.

Canadians are encouraged to wear a poppy as a visible symbol of remembrance and gratitude for those who served the country, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice.