Fijians have been urged to wear the poppy with pride and humility as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served their country and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua made the call yesterday while launching the 2026 Poppy Appeal in Suva.
Poppy Day, also known as Remembrance Day or Armistice Day, is observed annually on November 11. He said the poppy was more than a pin.
“It represents lives given in service, families forever changed, and a debt of gratitude we owe those who answered the call of duty when their nations needed them most,” he said.
Mr Tikoduadua acknowledged veterans, serving officers, and men and women of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, the Fiji Police Force, and the Fiji Corrections Service.
“Fiji’s story of service stretched beyond its shores, with generations of Fijians serving shoulder to shoulder with the international community from past world wars to some of the most challenging environments.”
He encouraged all Fijians to support the appeal and take part in commemorative activities in their communities.
“Let us ensure that the young people of Fiji understand that the peace and security they enjoy today were built upon the courage, duty, devotion and sacrifice of those who came before them, and may the poppy serve as a simple but powerful reminder of our shared duty to remember — Lest we forget.”
