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BURLINGTON Watching the funeral procession of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo last week had a profound effect on 10-year-old Justin Carter.
Shortly after, he asked his mom Kris if he could use his savings to 'buy' poppies for his entire school, all 283 students at Ascension Catholic Elementary.
"We have a Remembrance Day service and Justin wanted to make sure that no one went without a poppy," said Ascension principal Anna Smith.
Justin handed over a year's worth of savings from his Burlington Post paper route, in a small white envelope, to Burns MacLeod, poppy chair for the Royal Canadian Legion branch 60 in Burlington, last Wednesday at the school.
How did the Grade 5 student feel about knowing every student in the school would be wearing a poppy on Nov. 11 because of his generosity?
"Happy," grinned Justin.
The extended Carter family includes many members who have served in the military so Justin "has kind of grown up in the military world," said his mother, Kris.
She initially suggested he limit his poppy donation to the children in his class. But he was determined to include the whole school.
"So I thought we've got to make this a reality because this is something that is important to him," said Kris, who then contacted the Legion.
MacLeod was impressed with Justin's wish to make a difference.
"I did explain that the legion doesn't sell poppies, but we do appreciate any donations that people care to make," he said.
This is the first time he can remember, said MacLeod, that someone so young has made such a request.
The heartfelt initiative bodes well for veterans' hopes that the sacrifice of so many will not be forgotten by future generations.
"We sincerely hope," he said.
Remembrance Day has always been important to Justin and his family. Last year, as part of a Cub Scouts troop, Justin participated in the city's Remembrance Day parade.
"We understand at our age how important this is," said Kris.
"It's dear to my heart but when he said this I was impressed, being 10 years old and to think that he wants to spend his money this way.
"Justin has a big heart. He's a sweetheart."
Older brother Matthew was also impressed.
"That is so Justin," said his brother.
The demand for poppies this year, spurred by the tragic events of last month, will no doubt push the Burlington Legion past its annual 200,000 mark, said MacLeod.
Burlington Post
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Good morning all. :)
Have a great day. :)
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Happy Rep day everyone.................:-)
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Wishing you all an awesome day! :)
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good morning! :)
