Delaware County Council and Destination Delco, the county’s Tourism Bureau, announced a county-wide initiative on Tuesday to plant poppy seeds in honor of World War I veterans.

This year marks the Centennial of the United States entering World War I, known as “the war to end all wars.” More Americans gave their lives during that war than during the Korean and Vietnam wars combined.

Millions of men and women responded to the call 100 years ago, including 280 from Delaware County who made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.

The poem Flanders Field was written in 1915 by Canadian Physician Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrea in memory of his friend who died in the Great War. The red poppies that grew over the graves of fallen soldiers have become a symbol to memorialize and honor World War I veterans.

Delaware County is going RED in remembrance of World War I. Destination Delco has already begun to distribute the poppy seeds to homes, historic properties, and gardens throughout the county. Gardeners suggest planting the seeds in late April or early May for a summer bloom.

“Delaware County Council is dedicated to protecting those in active military service, helping veterans who have returned home from war, and remembering and honoring the veterans who are no longer with us,” said Delaware County Councilman Dave White. “We hope as you pass by a sea of red poppies that you will be reminded of those who fought for our freedom.”

Following the announcement, county council, horticultural students from the Williamson College of the Trades, and gardeners from the Penn State Master Gardeners Program planted poppy seeds outside of the Destination Delco office in Media.

“Our goal is to create public awareness of the great sacrifices of a patriotic generation of Americans, and we encourage all of our businesses, organizations, schools, and residents to plant these poppy seeds in their honor,” said White. “Let’s turn Delco red!”

Residents can get the poppy seeds by visiting the Destination Delco office and at various businesses and libraries across the county.

Click here for a full list of locations.