Harper Ruble has been selected as the 2025 Poppy Queen for Willard Stout American Legion Auxiliary Post 266 in Belle Center.
The American Legion Auxiliary and its volunteers will distribute the red crepe paper poppies for donation on Saturday, May 24, in Belle Center.
The donations will assist disabled and hospitalized Veterans. The Poppy Program is a source of income for the Veterans.
Harper Ann Ruble, age 5, of Bellefontaine, is a daughter of Nick and Taylor Ruble. She is the granddaughter of Mark and Diane Coleman, Lorne and Laura Quay, and Mike and Kelly Ruble. Harper is the great-granddaughter of John and Teri Stevens, Bill and Joyce Ruble and the late Gerald and Ann Houchin. She is also the great-great granddaughter of Lewis (Don) Stevens.
Harper will be a preschooler at Bellefontaine Elementary School next year. Harper enjoys T-ball, singing, dancing and being a big sister and she is also a member of First Christian Church in Bellefontaine.
Harper’s great-grandfather Gerald Houchin was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in the Korean War and retired as Commander Sgt. Major of the 73rd Brigade after 20 years of service. Great-great grandfather Don Stevens served in the U.S. Navy, Torpedoman 2nd Class in April 1951-1955.
Harper is honored to represent her grandfathers after both of their recent passings in the later months of 2024.
The poppy has been the official flower of the American Legion since 1920. The poppy is a symbol of sacrifice and is worn to honor the men and women who have fought for and died for our country in all wars, including the Global War on Terror. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices and continuing needs of our veterans and service members.
