National Forget-Me-Not Day

National Forget-Me-Not Day is an event every year on November 10 since the First World War to pay tribute to soldiers who did not return from the battlefield or returned with severe injuries. The symbol of the holiday is a charming flower – forget-me-not, which symbolizes longing for a loved one. In New Zealand, it is also dedicated to the relatives of those who lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s disease.

History

The holiday was first established just after World War I when Judge Robert S. Marks declared November 10 a day of remembrance for those who suffered severe physical injuries in the war. The proceeds from the purchase and sale of forget-me-nots go to the needs of the wounded.

Interesting Facts

• During the First World War, bomb explosions were heard at a distance of 140 miles.
• During the war, postmen delivered about 12 million letters to soldiers every week.
• The youngest soldier during the First World War was a boy of twelve years old from Britain.
• After the First World War, it was military surgeons who began to develop facial plastic surgery.

How to Take Part

• Buy a bunch of forget-me-nots and give them to a familiar war veteran who was wounded.
• Donate what you can to a charitable foundation that supports war veterans.
• Become a volunteer in such a foundation and help people.
• Inform the public about the holiday, study history, and read about the exploits of soldiers during the First World War.

When is National Forget-Me-Not Day in 2024?

National Forget-Me-Not Day is observed on November 10 each year.

Observations