Hazleton Area Quilt of Valor group honors local veteran with handcrafted quilt

A Hazleton Area chapter of Quilts of Valor recently gathered to present a handcrafted quilt to a local veteran, continuing the organization's national mission of comforting those who have served in the U.S. military. The presentation brought together volunteers, family members and community supporters to recognize the recipient's years of service.

About the Presentation

The ceremony followed the traditions established by the national Quilts of Valor Foundation, which awards quilts to veterans touched by war. Local volunteers sew, assemble and bind each quilt by hand before it is presented in a small gathering that often includes remarks about the recipient's service and read aloud messages of gratitude.

Presentations like the one held in Hazleton Area are typically organized by a small group of volunteers who coordinate nominations, host sew-ins and schedule ceremonies throughout the year.

A Continuing Tradition

Quilts of Valor chapters have formed in communities across the country, with members meeting regularly to stitch the layered, often patriotic-themed covers that have become symbols of appreciation for veterans.

• The foundation has awarded tens of thousands of quilts to service members and veterans since its founding.
• Local chapters depend on donated fabric, volunteer time and nominations from the community.
• Each quilt is intended as a lasting keepsake rather than a one-time gift.

For more on the experiences of veterans in the region, read about a Leland veteran who reflects on his journey from refugee to U.S. Army service. Related coverage also covers a proposed tax incentive for hiring military veterans and veterans who have raised concerns over proposed hunting permit revisions.