Memorial Day poppies, donations stolen from NJ VFW volunteer

Three bags of remembrance poppies and an unknown amount of donations were stolen from a VFW volunteer on a New Jersey roadside as Memorial Day Weekend began, police said.

The East Brunswick Police Department issued a plea for assistance from the public on Facebook late Friday.

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"Today at approximately 4:45 p.m., a representative from the East Brunswick Memorial VFW Post 133 was handing out Memorial Day Remembrance Poppies and soliciting donations in the area of the Ryders Lane and Cranbury Road," the post read.

"While interacting with a motorist, three plastic bags containing remembrance poppies and an unknown amount of money were stolen from the side of the road."

The police department asks anyone with information to contact the department at 732-390-6900. Anonymous confidential tips are accepted by dialing 732-4EBTIPS (328477) or by emailing tips@ebpd.net.

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The VFW post offered its thanks for the support shown by the community in the wake of the theft.

"Thank you so much for all the attention and support in light of the recent incident.

"The poppy is an important symbol and fundraiser we at post 133 do to raise awareness. The funds help us get homeless veterans needed services, veterans in crisis mental health care, transportation to elderly veterans, scholarships, food for vets who have fallen on hard times, and a ton of other services. Keep our veterans and their needs in your thoughts and prayers."

They continued to say that donations are always appreciated, and that anyone interested in making a contribution can send one to their post, or drop it off in person. Checks should be made payable to "VFW Post 133." The post is located at 485 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, New Jersey, 08816.

"Keep the message of this holiday in your heart," the post said. "Please honor the VFW this Memorial Day by paying tribute to the fallen who have sacrificed so much for our country."

The post already has seen support from East Brunswick Independent Fire Company.

"We were very sad to see the unfortunate incident which you had to face. The fire company will be making a donation which we hope will cover your losses & assist in helping those Veterans in need. Please do not let this incident cast a shadow over Memorial day, a few bad apples will never allow us to forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom," the fire company wrote on Facebook.

The East Brunswick Police Department and state PBA also are chipping in.

"Due to the recent events, the East Brunswick PBA Local 145 and 145A will each be donating $500 to the East Brunswick Memorial VFW Post 133 to help support their cause. The NJ State PBA will also be matching the donation according to president Patrick Colligan," the police shared on Instagram.

Remembrance poppies, often handmade by veterans out of crepe paper, typically crop up around Memorial Day and help raise funds for veterans in need.

"The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice worn by Americans since World War I to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedoms. Wear a poppy to honor those who have worn our nation's uniform," according to the American Legion Auxiliary.

The imagery comes from the poem "In Flanders Fields," written during World War I by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae.

"In Flanders Fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields."

Ilana Keller: @ilanakeller; 732-643-4260; ikeller@gannettnj.com