The North Central Washington chapter of Quilts of Valor (QOV) held a series of ceremonies over the summer to honor local veterans, wrapping them in handmade quilts as symbols of comfort, respect, and gratitude for their service.
Each quilt, made by Quilts of Valor volunteers, serves as a lasting reminder of the appreciation felt by a grateful nation.
On July 9, Navy veteran James C. was wrapped in a quilt at the Convalescent Center in Nespelem, recognizing his service from 1941 to 1951. The North Central Quilts of Valor group extended a heartfelt thanks to James for his decade of service to the country.
The same day, Navy and Marine Corps veteran William C. was honored with a quilt at the Colville Tribal Headquarters also in Nespelem. His quilt was donated by Ginny Sommers of the Mount Rainier Quilts of Valor group. William’s family members and the community attended the ceremony.
At the Tribal council gathering, Marine Corps World War II veteran Jack W. also received a quilt honoring his service from 1944 to 1946. His sons, John and David, were present as he was draped in a quilt crafted by Charlayne Knapp and Cindy San Miguel.
The ceremonies continued throughout the summer. On Aug. 14, Quilts of Valor members visited the home of Air Force veteran Bill S., presenting him with a quilt in the presence of his wife, Yvonne.
Bill also received a Vietnam Era lapel pin, acknowledging his years of dedication. His stories of service were shared in a warm and personal setting that underscored the importance of such recognitions.
On Aug. 22, Navy submariner Gary W. received his quilt at his home near Havillah (east of Tonasket), along with a Vietnam lapel pin. A group member’s husband joined Gary in exchanging pictures and stories, spending close to two hours reliving memories and the pride of service.
Earlier in the summer, on July 4, Army veteran Bill M. was honored with a quilt at the 82nd annual Chesaw Fourth of July Rodeo. Bill’s presentation— in front of the patriotic rodeo crowd — added a special element to the celebration, where parade goers joined in appreciation of his service.
Quilts of Valor was founded by Catherine Roberts in 2003, inspired by a vivid vision of a soldier transformed from despair to hope, wrapped in a quilt.
This vision launched a mission of healing through quilts, with over 355,000 created for veterans and service members across the nation.
Today, Washington State is home to 24 QOV groups and 550 volunteers who dedicate time, skills, and resources to make each quilt a meaningful gesture of gratitude.
The cost of each quilt ranges from $250 to $300, with fabric, batting, and supplies all donated or purchased through fundraisers, officials said.
For more information on the local chapter of Quilts of Valor, see qovf.org or contact Patti Hill at poohnova@gmail.com.♦
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