Hello,

I am Lily Merida Baker. I am very glad to be chosen as Poppy Princess for 2015. These poppies remind me of my late great-grandfather, Russell Baker, and all the others that have fought for our freedom.

My great-grandfather served as PFC Russell Baker, 485th automatic weapons battalion, in the Asiatic Pacific area. He entered the service on January 11, 1943, until the date of separation on December 26, 1945. He was a cannoneer 601.

He was awarded three Overseas Bars, Bronze Arrow Head, Asiatic Pacific Theater service ribbon, Philippines Liberation ribbon, and a Good Conduct medal....