The Royal Canadian Legion in Orillia unveiled an eight-foot-tall poppy sculpture Tuesday ahead of the upcoming poppy campaign.
The sculpture was created by Donald Butt with the help of his neighbour, Ryan Jeffery.
Butt began creating the sculpture last year in honour of his grandfather, who served as a British soldier in the First and Second World Wars.
His grandfather survived being hit in the face with a mortar shell, which caused him to lose his eye and have facial reconstructive surgery.
"He was a medic and he was actually underage," Butt explained. "He was only 15, and I think you had to be at least 16 to serve."
The poppy is made from old tractor seats, tractor-trailer rims, steel, and a helmet from the First World War. It took Butt more than a year to bring the piece to life.
The local artist says the Orillia Legion is the perfect place to display the sculpture.
"Without the people the Legion supports, I don't think any of us would be here today in Canada," Butt said. "That's why we can never forget the poppy and the service everybody put into it."
He hopes his sculpture will inspire young people to get into art and learn more about those who have defended Canada's peace.
Rick Purcell, president of the Orillia's Branch 34 Legion, says the community is welcome to visit during business hours to see the sculpture and the Legion Museum.
"We want people to come see this. Kids, parents — we want everybody to come and see this," he said.
Bob Thomas, chair of the poppy committee, says the new artwork symbolizes the Legion's attitude toward veterans.
"It's very important to recognize our veterans who have passed on and those who are still here," he said. "This symbolizes what the Legion stands for."
The poppy campaign will begin in Orillia on Friday. Poppies will be available by donation in many local retail and grocery stores and restaurants.
"By wearing a poppy for the next 15-or-so days, you are acknowledging the veterans who have passed on," Thomas said.
In previous years, Orillia has been one of the most supportive communities in the province for the poppy campaign, Purcell says.
"We've become a community service organization," he said. "One of our mandates is supporting youth cadets, youth sports, and community events. I think, because of that, the community sees us and supports us back."
Thomas says all money raised during the poppy campaign will be used to aid veterans and their needs.
"If you are a veteran and you need your driveway shovelled, the poppy fund would pay for it," he said as an example. "We help veterans with hearing aids, wheelchairs, walkers, and anything like that."
Purcell says there are more than 40 veterans living in Orillia who have various health needs.
"Helping our veterans is the most important thing that we can do," Thomas said.
"The way I look at it, we wouldn't be here without them," Butt added.
