By May Hunter, For Iron County Today
The Quilts of Valor group Patches4Patriots Iron County has been honoring local veterans with handmade quilts for nearly six years.
In 2020, Utah State Coordinator Crystal Farinella asked group leader Esmeralda Carter to establish the local Patches4Patriots group to serve Iron County. As a retired U.S. Navy Gulf War veteran, Carter understands firsthand the stress and challenges associated with military service. When the opportunity arose, she felt it was the perfect way to support local veterans and honor their sacrifices.
“Our mission has always been to support our local veterans with Quilts of Comfort and to assist in the healing of our nation’s veterans,” Carter said.
The group was founded by Esmeralda J. Carter, Paula Sylvester, Deb Leoni, Maggie E. Nelson, an Honorable Life Member, and Debi Smith. Since then, membership has grown to 14 members. The group works closely with each veteran to write their biography and honor their individual service.
Members work together to create and finish each quilt, including intricate long-arm machine quilting. Every quilt is thoughtfully designed as a reflection of the veteran receiving it. Countless hours go into each creation, but members say they do it because it is one small way they can show their love, gratitude and respect for veterans.
What Is a Quilt of Valor?
A Quilt of Valor (QOV) is a quality, handmade quilt that is either machine- or hand-quilted. It is awarded to a service member or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who has been touched by war. Each quilt carries a powerful message: “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.”
To officially be designated a Quilt of Valor, a quilt must meet specific size requirements, include a label with required information, be formally awarded rather than simply given as a gift, and be recorded.
Today’s military is composed of volunteers, and military service has always been rooted in having one another’s backs. From those “in the rear with the gear” to those serving on the front lines, being touched by war can take many forms.
Anyone who has taken the Oath of Enlistment has accepted a burden and risk that may affect them in ways that are not always visible. Whether serving during war or peace, we cannot fully know what a veteran experienced or how that experience affected them.
“The point is not to discriminate, but to honor. I believe it is not our job to judge whether someone deserved a QOV, but rather, do they need one?” — Catherine Roberts, Founder and Director, 2003–2012
Community Help Is Needed
Patches4Patriots is asking the community for help identifying veterans who can be honored with a Quilt of Valor. Many local veterans served during the Vietnam War and are now at an age when the recognition, comfort and healing represented by these quilts can be especially meaningful.
Community members are encouraged to nominate a veteran who served during a foreign war through the Quilts of Valor Foundation website. If the veteran lives in Iron County, please indicate that in the address when submitting the nomination.
The group is also looking for community members who would like to join its efforts.
“We would love for you to join our team,” Carter said. “We have a spot for you and need your help in honoring our veterans.”
Veterans may be nominated at QOVF.org.
For information about joining Patches4Patriots, contact group leader Esmeralda Carter at 757-438-2371.