Cheryl's report...thank you, Cheryl

This has been a busy week with Quilts of Valor.  It started with a sew-in in Yorkville, IL on Tuesday.  That is one of our regular monthly sew-ins.  On Saturday, I rode with Rita (our leader of the Land of Lincoln Quilts of Valor chapter) to Rockford, Illinois for the first ever sew-in at Quilter's Haven.  While we were there, the local TV news station showed up to report on the sew-in.  Here is the story that they did on WIFR.  There was film footage, and we were on the 6 & 10pm news, too.  Woohoo!  Quilter's Haven is looking forward to having more sew-ins, in the future. 

WIFR news guy shooting footage of the long arm class

in the process of cutting quilt kits

I cut several quilt kits for future Quilts of Valor quilts.  There are many ladies who just pick up kits, then bring back the finished top (or quilt) when they are done.  Many can't make any of the sew-ins that we have.

Today, I got to make a Quilts of Valor presentation to a returning US Army Airborne Ranger.  Here is just a part of his write up.

 

He has been to Iraq once and just returned from Afghanistan in May (for the 5th time)  He plans on continuing with the Rangers in Reconnaissance.

An E-6, Brett has received the Army Achievement, Army Commendation, Good Conduct Medals, 2 Joint Service Commendation Medals,  Afghanistan Campaign Medal , 3 Campaign Stars,  Iraqi Campaign Medal and  2 Campaign Stars.

My oldest son came with me for the presentation.  He held a flag while the 'parade' arrived.

my son (far right) holding a flag

 There were about 100 vehicles of all kinds that were a part of this. They just kept coming, horns honking and people waving.  Very moving!

first cars

more vehicles and start of the motorcycles

motorcycles

more motorcycles

the fire department

start of the line of tow trucks, too

The presentations were great!  They even gave his daughters teddy bears dressed in camouflage.  Here is the family.

some of the family

  And here is me presenting him with his Quilt of Valor (on a VERY hot, steamy day).

wrapped in his Quilt of Valor

 If you have never been to a Welcome Home event, I recommend it greatly.  Sign up on their website in your area, and attend.