The Natioanl Poppy Appeal was a way in which the public can acknowledge and commend the sacrifices of our servicemen and women in past conflicts and current engagements, says Ratu Peni Volavola.

The Ex-Servicemen’s Association president said: “The purpose of the appeal is to provide public awareness of what it meant for us living now and enjoying prosperity and peace as a result of the sacrifices made by those that have passed on.

“We really are the beneficiaries of it and we ask for the generosity of the public to think of the welfare and the plight of the members of the association.”

Meanwhile, a woman of Naisaumua in Verata, Tailevu, will today begin her second year of selling poppy to commemorate her late husband, Sergeant Kitione Verebasaga’s services.

Widow Raijeli Salele Verebasaga, 67, will be among those that will be on the streets around the country from today selling poppy to raise money for the Ex-Servicemen’s Association.

The late Sergeant Verebasaga was part of Fiji’s first contingent to Lebanon in 1978. He died 14 years ago after a short illness.

“I just want to assist the association in raising funds since I am also receiving pension from them; I also do this in honour of my late husband,” she said.

“When I started selling poppy last year, it brought back memories of him during his days in the Fiji Military.”

The National Poppy Appeal was yesterday launched by the Minister for Immigration, Defence and National Security, Timoci Natuva.

aqela.susu@fijisun.com.fj