Exchange’s HEROES Group Honors Those Who Served for National Poppy Day
Members of Exchange special emphasis program HEROES greeted associates arriving at headquarters with red poppies on May 25 in honor of National Poppy Day (May 26).
In its fourth year, the observance of National Poppy Day at the Exchange recognizes associates who have served and honors all who have sacrificed and died for our country since World War I.
The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice. Coordinated nationwide by the American Legion, the national observance calls Americans to wear a poppy in honor of those who have worn a military uniform.
The HEROES group gathered to distribute red poppies and poems to Exchange associates entering the HQ building on May 25. From left: Senior Vice President of Real Estate Mike Smietana; Senior Business Systems Analyst Sandra Wicker; Exchange Vice President, Services, Health, Wellness and Telecom Denise Gumbert; Vice President of Credit Operations Joseph Todd; Business Program Specialist Shalandrea Smith; and Chief, Worldwide Services and Vending Lani Chandler.
“The Exchange HEROES Special Emphasis Program raises the awareness of all associates to the contributions and sacrifice of our AAFES veterans, spouses and dependents around the world,” said Exchange Senior Vice President of Real Estate Mike Smietana, HEROES’ Executive Champion. “I can’t think of a better occasion than Memorial Day to pay tribute to all fallen heroes by wearing a poppy during the Memorial Day weekend. As the years go on, I hope we as a country never forget their sacrifice.”
The group also gave passersby a printed version of the poem, “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae. The poem, written during World War I, honors fallen Warfighters who sacrificed their lives to protect our freedoms.
“Wearing a poppy reminds us of the sacrifices made by our service members while protecting our freedoms. We have much to be grateful for,” said Exchange Vice President, Services, Health, Wellness and Telecom Denise Gumbert, HEROES’ Deputy Executive Champion. “Honoring those who serve and remembering those who have fallen for our freedoms should always be commemorated. Joining the HEROES team to bring this reminder of hope to our associates is a great honor.”
Associates can honor Veterans all year long with HEROES, in conjunction with Equal Employment Opportunity Diversity & Inclusion. Visit the HEROES portal page for more information on upcoming events.
The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice. Coordinated nationwide by the American Legion, the national observance calls Americans to wear a poppy in honor of those who have worn a military uniform.
