Dozens of Ceramic Poppies Made to Honor Fallen Heroes

As Memorial Day approaches, red poppies will begin “popping” up as they are symbols to honor and memorialize fallen heroes. The red poppy officially became the national emblem of remembrance in 1920.

Locally, a wonderful collaboration is taking place with the Avon Lake American Legion Post 211, 31972 Walker Road, and Avon High School art students.

Mike Schrull, American Legion Post 211 Commander, shared that while he was in Alabama visiting family he was told about the state’s Poppy Project by his sister who gave him a poppy to bring back to Ohio. The Alabama Poppy Project is handmade ceramic poppies placed on metal stakes in a field near Heritage Park in Prattville, Alabama. White ribbons displaying the names of the fallen are tied to various poppies, dedicated by loved ones in their honor.

Schrull loved the idea and wanted to bring it to Ohio. He posted the Poppy Project information on social media as a call to see if anyone would be interested in making the ceramic poppies. Karen Busch, Avon High School art teacher, saw the post and knew immediately this was something she wanted her students to be part of.

Earlier this spring, several Avon High School art students, Avon High School Art Club members, and National Art Honor Society members from Avon High School began making the ceramic poppies at the high school

The American Legion Post has been selling the poppies for a $20 donation for families/friends to purchase in honor/memory of loved ones. Donations will be given to help assist families of veterans.