Quilts of Valor honors eight local veterans with handcrafted quilts

Eight local veterans were honored Saturday as the Coweta County chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation presented each of them with a handcrafted quilt recognizing their service to the nation.

The ceremony, held at American Legion Post 50 and VFW Post 9949, included music, refreshments, and a moment of recognition for one additional veteran who could not attend because he was visiting with a fellow veteran who is seriously ill.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation, a national volunteer organization, has awarded more than 427,000 quilts since its founding in 2003. Each quilt is created to honor a service member or veteran “touched by war,” offering comfort, gratitude, and acknowledgment of sacrifice.

According to the local chapter, every quilt is handmade, 100 percent unique, and designed so that no color combination, pattern, or material grouping is ever repeated. The Coweta County group has crafted 1,300 quilts to date for veterans throughout the region.

Peachtree City Councilman Clint Holland, a veteran himself and one of the honorees, said the ceremony was both meaningful and emotional.

“It was an honor to stand with these men who served our country and our community,” Holland said. “The dedication and talent of the Quilts of Valor volunteers mean a great deal to every veteran who receives one.”

The veterans recognized on Saturday were:

– Ken Benson*

– Victor Binilla

– Kevin Glinecki

– Clint Holland*

– Pat Kelly

– Ray Wilcocks

– Dallas Wurst

– James Young

*Benson and Holland also received the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration Lapel Pin, a recognition presented to all living U.S. veterans who served on active duty between November 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975, regardless of duty station.

The lapel pin is intended as “a lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks for your service.”

Holland expressed gratitude to the Coweta County Quilts of Valor volunteers for their ongoing commitment. “Their perseverance and craftsmanship make these ceremonies possible,” he said. “It is a heartfelt way to honor those who served faithfully in our military.”

The Quilts of Valor Foundation’s national site includes information for veterans, families, and community members who wish to request or sponsor a quilt.