Given that the second and third commentors gave the requisite answer, it was obviously NOT so exotic nor was any preface needed. The fact that the Germans do not mark this occasion, is hardly revelatory nor expected given the very well known outcome.
The poppy is a visual reminder that we remember the fallen members of the armed forces on remembrance day.
Yet you seem to wish to make this about white imperialists - horrors have been committed for centuries, this is without dispute. The poppy (for me) is to say you are not forgotten and thank you, with the hopes that a few quid goes to the legion for these old lads and lasses. Put the soap box away!