The Poppy LadyBy: Barbara E. Walsh Illustrator: Layne Johnson Here is the inspiring story behind the Veterans Day red poppy, a symbol that honors the service and sacrifices of our veterans. When American soldiers entered World War I, Moina Belle Michael, a schoolteacher from Georgia, knew she had to act. Some of the soldiers were her students and friends. Almost single handedly, Moina worked to establish the red poppy as the symbol to honor and remember soldiers.