Harper Ann Ruble has been selected as the 2025 Poppy Queen for the Willard Stout American Legion Auxiliary Post 266 in Belle Center.
Harper, age 5, of Bellefontaine, will represent the Auxiliary’s annual Poppy Program, which raises funds to support disabled and hospitalized veterans.
Volunteers from the American Legion Auxiliary will distribute red crepe paper poppies for donations on Saturday, May 24, throughout Belle Center.
The Poppy Program provides essential financial support for veterans in need, and the iconic red poppy — a symbol of sacrifice since 1920 — continues to serve as a reminder of those who have fought and died for our country.
Harper is the daughter of Nick and Taylor Ruble, and the granddaughter of Mark and Diane Coleman, Lorne and Laura Quay, and Mike and Kelly Ruble.
She is also the great-granddaughter of John and Teri Stevens, Bill and Joyce Ruble, and the late Gerald and Ann Houchin, and the great-great-granddaughter of Lewis “Don” Stevens.
She will be attending preschool at Bellefontaine Elementary School this fall. Outside the classroom, Harper enjoys playing T-ball, singing, dancing, and spending time with her younger sibling.
She is also a member of First Christian Church in Bellefontaine.
Harper’s selection as Poppy Queen is especially meaningful to her family, as she honors the memory of two great-grandfathers who recently passed.
Gerald Houchin was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War and retired as Command Sergeant Major of the 73rd Brigade after 20 years of service.
Don Stevens served as a Torpedoman 2nd Class in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955.
Harper and her family are honored to carry on their legacy through the Poppy Program.
