Stitchin’ Heaven in Quitman was the site of a special  ceremony Saturday afternoon honoring Wood County veterans. 

This is the second year Stitchin’ Heaven has been involved with the Quilts of Valor program. Quilts of Valor started in 2003 when quilter Catherine Roberts had the idea of comforting service members with quilts during a time when her son was deployed to Iraq. Since then over 233,000 Quilts of  Valor have been awarded in the United States, Iraq and Afghanistan. They are awarded in major treatment centers such as Walter Reed Hospital, Brooks Army Medical Center, VA centers and local facilities like Stitchin’ Heaven. 

The mission of the organization is to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting Quilts of Valor. The organization represents one human being reaching out and touching another, without judgement, with acceptance and an acknowledgment of service to the nation in very trying circumstances.

At Saturday’s service, Suzanne DiCarlo of Mineola who serves as the information and help desk coordinator and is a member of the executive staff for the Quilts of Valor Foundation, led the program. 

“For those of us who have never seen combat or been in a war zone, such experiences are beyond our capacity to comprehend. We believe the quilt we bring you today has the ability to offer both comfort and healing,” DiCarlo said. “Our idea is that when you experience dark times, memories or need the warmth of a grateful hug, you will wrap your quilt around you so it can provide the comfort we have sewn into every seam. It was made to be used by you.”

DiCarlo continued explaining the quilts bring the veterans a three-part message from the hearts of the quilters. “First, we honor you for your service, for leaving all that is dear to stand in harm’s way in a time of crisis, protecting us from the effects of war. Second, our quilters know freedom is not free. The cost of freedom is the dedication of the lives of men and women like you,” DiCarlo explained. “And third, this quilt is meant to offer comfort and healing to you. It serves as a reminder that although your family and friends are not with you at all times, you are forever in all our thoughts and hearts.”

DiCarlo continued, “As of today, the story of this quilt becomes your story. We hope you will keep this quilt as a tangible reminder that thousands of Americans across this land are forever in your debt. Now you have become a part of our quilting family. Though we may never know the depth of your sacrifice to protect and defend the United States of America, as a gratitude of a grateful nation, we award you this quilt of valor.”

Ten quilts were to be awarded, but not all the veterans were able to attend. Veterans and family members numbered about 40 at the event. Quilts were awarded to members of all branches of military service.