‘Star of David poppies’ initiative to mark Remembrance Sunday in Manchester
Community groups urged to offer special tribute 'as a show of solidarity' during this year's memorial event
Manchester’s Jewish community are being encouraged to place small wooden Magen David poppies at cenotaphs across the city during this year’s Remembrance Sunday.
The Star of David poppies are an innovative joint initiative between the Jewish Representative Council (JPR) and the Manchester branch of the national Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and Women (AJEX).
Joe Flacks, chairman of the AJEX Manchester branch, said schools and communal organisations were participating “as a show of solidarity,” as the Jewish community remembers the 41,000 British Jews who fought in World War One, and the 65,000 who fought in World War Two.
The percentage of Jewish men and women killed on active service during the two wars was the highest of any ethnic group, and Jewish soldiers were recognised for their bravery, including eight Victoria Cross recipients.
“These men and women were our great grandparents, grandparents and parents,” said Flacks. “They gave their lives so that we all may live today.”
The poppies can be ordered directly from the British Legion for a minimum donation of a £1 each.
Email your order to sjbarker@britishlegion.org.uk . Payment must be made prior to delivery.
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