What is the Quilt of Valor?
The Quilt of Valor (QOV) is a prestigious award given to recipients who have been wounded or injured during active military service. This hand-stitched quilt is not just a symbol of appreciation but also a tangible representation of the love and admiration that the recipient has earned.
History of the Quilt of Valor
The Quilt of Valor was founded in 2003 by Cathy Montgomery, a retired educator from Illinois. Montgomery had witnessed the sacrifices made by soldiers returning from combat and wanted to create something meaningful to show her gratitude. She sewed the first Quilt of Valor by hand, and it was dedicated to a wounded soldier named Sergeant Randy Jacobson.
How is a Quilt of Valor Made?
Making a Quilt of Valor requires dedication, patience, and skill. Here’s an overview of the process:
- Design: Each quilt is uniquely designed to reflect the recipient’s individual story, unit, or branch of service. The design is carefully planned and stitched onto the quilt.
- Piecing: The quilt is made by piecing together hundreds of squares and rectangles of fabric, often from military uniforms, flags, and patriotic themes.
- Quilting: The stitched design is then quilted onto the pieced fabric using a combination of longarm quilting and handquilting techniques.
- Binding: The quilt is finished with a binding of sturdy fabric to prevent fraying and add a professional touch.
Significance of the Quilt of Valor
The Quilt of Valor is not just a decorative item; it carries great emotional significance for the recipient and their families.
- Symbol of Appreciation: The quilt is a tangible representation of appreciation and gratitude for the sacrifices made by the recipient.
- Comfort and Healing: Many recipients have reported that the quilt brings them comfort and healing, providing a sense of peace and calm.
- Symbol of Brotherhood: The quilt serves as a symbol of brotherhood among the soldiers, as each quilt is a piece of art created by volunteers who are driven by a sense of patriotism and camaraderie.
Facts and Statistics about the Quilt of Valor
Here are some interesting facts and statistics about the Quilt of Valor program:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Quilts Made | Over 250,000 |
| Number of Recipients | Over 100,000 |
| States with the Most Quilts Made | California, Texas, and Florida |
| Average Time Spent Making a Quilt | 100-200 Hours |
How to Get a Quilt of Valor
If you’re a military service member or know someone who qualifies, here’s how to receive a Quilt of Valor:
- Nomination: The quilt-making organization, Quilts of Valor, Inc., accepts nominations from family members, friends, or colleagues.
- Verification: The quilt is verified through the Department of Veterans Affairs or other military organizations.
- Presentation: The quilt is presented to the recipient in a special ceremony, often by the quilt maker or a representative from the Quilts of Valor organization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Quilt of Valor:
Q1: Who is eligible for the Quilt of Valor?
A1: Eligible recipients include military service members who have been wounded or injured during active duty, including those with physical injuries, PTSD, or other war-related conditions.
Q2: Can anyone make a Quilt of Valor?
A2: Yes, volunteers from all over the world can join the Quilts of Valor movement and make quilts for deserving service members.
Q3: How much time does it take to make a Quilt of Valor?
A3: The time it takes to make a Quilt of Valor varies, but most quilts take around 100-200 hours to complete.
Q4: How many Quilts of Valor have been made?
A4: As of 2022, over 250,000 Quilts of Valor have been made and presented to deserving service members.
Q5: What are some of the most common designs used for Quilts of Valor?
A5: Common designs include patriotic themes, camouflage patterns, and symbols representing specific branches of the military.
Q6: Can I get a custom-made Quilt of Valor?
A6: Yes, some quilt makers offer custom-designed quilts for special occasions, such as weddings or anniversaries.
Q7: How do I get a Quilt of Valor for a loved one?
A7: You can nominate your loved one through the Quilts of Valor, Inc. website or contact a local quilt-making group to inquire about the process.
Q8: What is the significance of the Quilt of Valor’s signature stitch, the "Flying Geese" pattern?
A8: The "Flying Geese" pattern is a symbol of freedom, which represents the service member’s journey back to freedom and their loved ones after deployment.
In conclusion, the Quilt of Valor is a remarkable organization that has touched the lives of over 100,000 service members worldwide. This hand-stitched quilt is a testament to the resilience and gratitude of the American people and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve our country.