Poppies for veterans: symbolic flower helps support those who served

People across Czechia can now support war veterans by buying a symbolic red poppy, a gesture of remembrance traditionally observed on 11 November. The charity campaign by the non-governmental organization Post Bellum starts today, while the Ministry of Defence launched its own initiative at the end of October. This year marks the 11th edition of Post Bellum’s fundraiser, which runs until the end of November. Cloth poppies are available at nearly 2,000 locations nationwide — from cafés and libraries to public offices and shops — and between 7 and 11 November, also from volunteers in the streets. Donations support veterans directly and help preserve their stories through the Memory of Nations project. The Defence Ministry’s campaign offers paper, magnetic, and digital poppies through the website digimak.cz. Proceeds go to the Military Solidarity Fund, aiding veterans and soldiers in need. Remembrance Day events will take place nationwide on 11 November, marking the end of World War I.