Two veterans received Quilts of Valor last week.
Quilts of Valor are given across the United States “to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” Terry Courville and Penny Knott became the newest veterans to receive quilts.
In 2003, the QOVF (Quilt of Valor Foundation) was established by Catherine Roberts, whose vision began with her own son who was deployed to Iraq. Her vision was one of healing. Roberts said she could see her son wrapped in a quilt – which changed his whole demeanor from one of despair to one of hope and well being. In April of 2022, QOVF delivered its 300,000th quilt, and today, the organization continues to award honorary quilts to veterans. (www.qovf.org)
Teresa Laughlin of Merryville, a member of the Red Hill Girlz, Group 583, a quilt of valor group, made the presentation. She said the quilts were made by Linda Rider of Oberlin. Laughlin was only the presenter for the group.
“It’s something we do to tell our veterans thank you,” she said. “I’ve given about 300 to 400 of these quilts since 2014.”
She said the quilts are made through donations. She said all the money her organization receives, she uses to purchase fabric wholesale in her area. She said Linda wanted to do these because they were going to someone special she knew.
“It’s a warm hug,” Laughlin said as the presentation was made. “You only get one. It’s meant as an award.”
Anyone wishing to make a donation, can locate a local chapter through the national website or contact a local member.
