On December 17, two local veterans who were unable to receive their Quilts of Valor during the Veterans Day ceremony earlier this year, were formally honored during a smaller, more intimate gathering at Wrightwood Veterans Memorial Park. The ceremony ensured that their service and sacrifice did not go unrecognized, despite earlier scheduling conflicts.
The quaint but meaningful event was presided over by Marion Hall, who, along with fellow volunteer Diane Armstrong, represents the newly formed Wrightwood chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation. Family members and supporters were present as the veterans were individually recognized and presented with their handmade quilts, each stitched with care and gratitude by community volunteers.
Before the presentation, Hall delivered remarks on behalf of the Quilts of Valor Foundation, explaining the significance of the quilts and the mission behind the organization.
“Diane Armstrong and I are here today to honor you two veterans, Leland Doughtery and Ken Hunt. We are volunteers of the Quilts of Valor Foundation and are proud to present you with our lovingly handmade quilts as a symbol of our sincere appreciation and gratitude for your service. They are meant to convey comfort & caring. Our foundation was established in 2003 by a mother of a service member, she made a quilt and sent it to her son, it made a profound difference and gave him great comfort. She then felt that as many service veterans as possible should receive a quilt, so the foundation was established so far, we have presented close to 500,000 quilts to deserving veterans. Leland Dougherty served in the Air Force from 1962-1966, his rank is E4 Senior Airman 1st Class. He had been stationed in Alaska, Washington, and Montana. Ken Hunt served in the marines as lance corporal from 1969-1971. He also was in the police military and reserves until 1975. He was stationed in Paris Island and Camp la June. Diane and I sincerely Thank You for your service.”
Marion Hall and Diane Armstrong are members of the newly established Wrightwood chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation, which officially formed in February 2025. The chapter aims to continue honoring local veterans through quilt presentations and community involvement, ensuring that no veteran is forgotten. The Quilts of Valor poem expresses the tradition that underscores the meaning behind each quilt:
QUILT OF VALOR POEM
A few pieces of cloth from people who care
to honor your service, it only seems fair.
Carefully chosen materials of red, white, and blue,
sewn together for those patriotic and true.
A top pieced together with caring and pride,
then quilted with backing and a warm layer inside.
Every stitch and seam sewn from the very start,
with appreciation and gratitude straight from our heart.
For you who have sacrificed for those here at home,
may this warm and comfort you wherever you roam.
Our hope with this quilt is to make sure you knew,
we appreciate all you’ve done and all you’ve been through.
To learn more about the Quilts of Valor Organization, visit their website at www.qovf.org
