November 11, 2011 Sharif

[DanaC]

We usually call it Remembrance Day or Poppy Day, but its also called Armistice Day.

We call it Poppy Day because the British Legion always sell poppies at that time to raise money for the support they give to injured servicemen and their families. Originally the poppies were only sold on the day itself, nowadays they're sold for a couple of weeks ahead of time. People wear them in their lapels as a mark of respect.

Can't recall for sure, but I think the paper poppies were made by ex-servicemen, thereby also providing work for some injured soldiers. Not sure if that's still the case.

We actually have two days really. The actual day itself (11/11) when there is a minute's silence at 11am. And the following Sunday, which is when all the services are held - Remembrance Sunday.