Belle Center resident Scarlett Raylee Manns has been selected as the Poppy Queen for 2024 for Willard Stout Post 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 25, in Belle Center.
The donations will assist disabled and hospitalized veterans. The Poppy Program is a source of income for the veterans.
Scarlett, age 7, is a daughter of Jordan K. Manns and Jordan A. Manns. She is the granddaughter of Kevin and Charlene Manns, Stacy and Steve Robinette, and Amy Henry.
She is the great-granddaughter of Crit and Heather Manns, Donna and the late Fred Harbor, and the late Edison and Loris Henry.
Scarlett will be a second-grader at Benjamin Logan Elementary School next year. She enjoys softball, soccer and basketball. Scarlett is a fifth-generation Belle Center resident and is a member of the Belle Center Cornerstone Church.
Her father, Jordan K. Manns, served in the U.S. Army, 2010-2014, 11B Paratrooper in the 501st of the 4-25, serving a tour in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.
Scarlett’s grandfather, Steve L. Robinette, served in the U.S. Navy, 1990-1993, GM, Dessert Storm.
Her great-grandfather, the late Edison R. Henry served in the U.S. Navy, 1951-1955, Aviation Structural Mechanic, Third Class, Korean War.
She is the great-niece of Edison L. Henry, U.S. Navy, 1977-2007, Retired Lieutenant Commander, Cold War, Gulf War, and War on Global Terrorism.
Scarlett is also the great-niece of Bill Harshbarger, U.S. Navy, 1972-1976, Hospital Corpsman, Vietnam and Army Reserve Nurse Corp, 1987-2009, Retired Major.
She has several cousins and close family friends who have also proudly served our great country.
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 woman who have fought for and died for our country in all wars, including the Global War on Terror
It reminds us of the sacrifices and continuing needs of our veterans and service members.
Scarlett Manns, 7, left, is pictured with and Belle Center Mayor Lance Houchin, along with veteran banners of her Great Grandfather Ed Henry, Great Uncle Eddie Henry and her Father Jordan Manns. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)