EPHRATA — The City of Ephrata is set to formally recognize Poppy Days from May 16 through May 30 with a mayoral proclamation highlighting the importance of honoring veterans and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The proclamation, presented by Mayor Steve Oliver, encourages residents to wear a red poppy in recognition of veterans and to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day beyond a single holiday.

“Unfortunately, our veterans only get one real day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day,” Oliver said. “But it really doesn’t explain how much time should be dedicated to remembering all the good things they did for us. This is a small gesture to make sure that we are thinking about them more often than just those two days a year.”

According to city officials, proclamations are issued at the mayor’s discretion and do not require council approval.

“Proclamations are a privilege of the mayor and do not need to be voted on and approved by council,” said City Clerk Rob Miller. “It will be presented as part of the meeting, he will then make the decision to sign it at the meeting.”

Miller, a veteran, said the recognition carries added significance as the community approaches Memorial Day.

“I strongly support veterans and organizations that act in good faith to lift up fellow veterans and honor the sacrifices made,” he said.

The Poppy Days observance is supported locally by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 28, whose members distribute poppies throughout the community as a symbol of remembrance.

Longtime auxiliary member Jane Montaney said the effort is as much about awareness as it is about honoring sacrifice.

“People have a tendency to forget,” Montaney said. “We have so many benefits of living here that we take for granted.”

She emphasized that the poppies are not sold, but offered freely to encourage reflection.

“We’re not under any circumstances selling poppies,” she said. “We ask people to take one, wear it in honor of our veterans, and remember them—not just on Memorial Day weekend, but throughout the year.”

Montaney noted that Memorial Day was established to honor those who died in service, though many today view it simply as a long weekend.

“To some it looks like a three-day holiday,” she said. “But there are those of us out in the public making sure people remember what it’s really about.”

The red poppy has long been associated with remembrance of fallen soldiers, inspired by the World War I poem “In Flanders Fields” and the flowers that grew on European battlefields.

Oliver said supporting the proclamation was an easy decision for the city and reflects the values of the community.

“It just seemed like a no-brainer for us to make sure people are aware,” he said. “We’re a small community, and when something meaningful happens, we rally around it.”

The mayor also encouraged residents to attend Memorial Day services at the Grant County Courthouse and to take time to recognize those who have served.

“This is just one way to show appreciation,” Oliver said. “It’s about making sure our veterans and their families feel supported and remembered.”