Poinsettias and Patriotism: A Heartfelt Christmas Tradition

A simple act of kindness transformed into a cherished Christmas tradition for Nikki Shipman, who expresses her appreciation for military service through the gift of poinsettias. This heartwarming story began in December 2011, when Shipman noticed a sign reading “Welcome Home USMC Sgt Morgan” while driving to her job at the Fontaine Trailer Company in Jasper, Alabama.

Feeling a deep sense of patriotism—her father, Wayne Brackin, served in the Army during the Vietnam War—Shipman felt compelled to act. Three days later, she purchased a beautiful poinsettia from Home Depot with plans to thank the Morgan family for their service. As she approached their home, however, nerves took over. When she knocked, her excitement faded as she fumbled to express her gratitude.

“Uh, hello, is Sergeant Morgan home?” she asked, her voice quivering. Despite the awkward encounter, she handed the flower to a young man, Ryan Apollo Morgan, before quickly retreating to her car. Unbeknownst to Shipman, this brief interaction would lead to a lasting bond.

Sergeant Morgan, an exemplary military member, enlisted in the Marines shortly after graduating from Curry High School in 2002. He served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and completed multiple deployments to Fallujah, Iraq. Later, he transitioned to the Air Force, where he continued his commendable service until his tragic death in 2020 at the age of 32.

Years passed, and Shipman moved to Madison, Alabama, for a new job. In November 2020, while returning to Jasper for work with the Jasper Board of Education, she drove by the Morgan house, recalling her first visit nearly a decade prior. Remembering her earlier visit, she felt an urge to reconnect.

Upon arriving at the home, she encountered Anna Burg, Sergeant Morgan’s mother. “You’re the lady who gave my son a poinsettia,” Burg exclaimed. Their conversation revealed the profound impact of that initial gift. The poinsettia had meant so much to her son that he wanted to take it back to his base.

The tragic death of Sergeant Morgan left a void for his family. In an effort to honor his memory, Shipman decided to gift Anna Burg a poinsettia that Christmas. “I was broken-hearted,” she reflected. “I needed to do something.”

The gift marked the beginning of a new tradition. Each December, Shipman continues to bring poinsettias to the Burg family, fostering a connection that has only grown stronger over the years. The gesture not only brings joy but also serves as a reminder of the love and sacrifice that defines military families.

In 2022, Anna Burg reciprocated the kindness by gifting Shipman cookies that were Sergeant Morgan’s favorites, further solidifying their bond. “Looking at Nikki’s poinsettias makes us think of Apollo,” Anna said, reflecting on how these small acts of kindness provide comfort during the holidays.

As the years progress, Shipman remains dedicated to her role with the Jasper Board of Education, while the Burg family continues to honor the memory of their son. Through their shared experiences, they highlight the profound impact of community connections and the warmth that arises from kindness.

This festive season, as both families prepare for Christmas, they cherish the memories of loved ones, both living and departed. They take solace in the knowledge that simple gestures can lead to lasting blessings, enriching their lives and the lives of those around them.