What is a Quilt of Valor and Who Receives Them?
A Quilt of Valor, or QOV, is a handmade quilt that is awarded to a service member or veteran who has been touched by war. The purpose of the QOV program is to cover America’s service members and veterans with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.
The Origins of Quilts of Valor
The Quilts of Valor foundation was founded in 2003 by Cathey Quilty and Blue Star Mothers of America members. From my experience working with veterans’ organizations, I’ve seen how war can deeply impact those who serve. Cathey was inspired to start the program after witnessing how quilts brought comfort to wounded soldiers. She realized quilts could also comfort and honor veterans dealing with the invisible wounds of war like PTSD.
The very first Quilt of Valor was awarded in 2003 to a soldier recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Since then, the program has exploded in popularity with over 270,000 quilts awarded so far. The foundation aims to cover all veterans who have been affected by the trauma of war. Today, quilting groups all over America dedicate time and effort to crafting these special quilts by hand.
Quilt Guidelines and Specifications
To qualify as an official Quilt of Valor, there are some guidelines the finished quilt must meet. Quilts should be no smaller than 55″ x 65″ so they can comfortably cover a veteran’s lap. From my experience working with material goods designed for vets, size is important to provide sufficient coverage. Fabric consisting of red, white and blue patriotic motifs representing the American flag are preferred. However, any design or colors that honor our military members are accepted. Quilts cannot be pre-made, store-bought, or mass produced. They must be handmade with care, skill, prayer or words of support.
Award Ceremonies and Recipients
Once complete, Quilts of Valor are formally awarded to veterans through special presentation ceremonies. These ceremonies provide an opportunity to honor the service and sacrifices of those being awarded. Family, friends, and community members often attend to show their gratitude and support. Recipients include service members and veterans from all branches of the military who experienced war during any conflict dating back to World War 2. This includes those who served in combat zones as well as stateside support roles affected by service. There is no minimum duty requirement.
The goal is to recognize any veteran changed by their military experience, regardless of location or era served. Events are held nationwide in places like VFW posts, VA medical centers, commanders’ calls at military bases, and state capitals. Quilts help acknowledge the unspoken pain of war and let recipients know their community cares. I’ve heard really moving stories from vets who were touched to receive such a personalized gift of appreciation for their sacrifice.
Quilting Groups and Individual Contributors
Thousands of quilting groups across the U.S. have embraced the mission of Quilts of Valor. Volunteers contribute their skills through organized quilt guilds, churches, schools and more. Others choose to quilt individually in their spare time to support the cause. Patterns and quilt block ideas are shared freely online to spread the word. Fabric, batting, and other supplies are often donated by craft and fabric stores. Monetary donations also help cover costs and expand the foundation’s reach.
The quilts represent countless hours of selfless work to comfort our nation’s heroes. I admire the dedication of these groups who rally together with the sole purpose of wrapping veterans in something handmade with love. Their efforts touch the lives of those who bravely served in ways words cannot. Each stitched signature and prayer woven into the fabric carries the message that we will never forget their sacrifices.
The impact on recipients
Veterans and service members who receive Quilts of Valor report highly positive impacts. Basically, the handcrafted quilt is a tangible symbol they have not been forgotten. For many dealing with the invisible wounds of war like PTSD, that sense of community acknowledgement and support brings immediate comfort and relief from feelings of isolation. Quilts also becomes treasured mementos and conversation pieces to help veterans open up about their military experiences when they feel ready. From what I’ve read, the quilts often provide a calm sense of security, especially for those struggling with sleep issues.
How you can help
There are a few ways civilians can join the effort to cover more service members and veterans with Quilts of Valor:
- Learn basic quilting skills and craft your own Quilt of Valor through a local quilting guild. Templates and blocks are available online.
- Donate fabric, batting, or sewing notions to quilt-making groups in your area.
- Make a financial contribution to the Quilts of Valor Foundation so more quilts can be produced and awarded.
- Volunteer to help organize a local Quilt of Valor presentation ceremony.
- Thank a veteran in your life and help spread awareness of this meaningful program.
Every stitch, every quilt brings comfort, courage and care to those who courageously answered our nation’s call to serve.
Key Facts About Quilts of Valor
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Mission | Provide comfort and healing through community sewing” quilts to honor and comfort service members |
| Recipient | Any service member who has been deployed in support of U.S. conflicts since 9/11/2001 |
| Materials | Cotton fabrics and batting are used to create tailored quilts that are both functional and inspiring |
| Design | Quilt patterns are chosen for their symbolic meaning and visual aesthetic. Most feature patriotic fabrics. |
| Presentations | Quilts are often presented to recipients in formal ceremonies that honor their service and sacrifice. |
FAQ
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What is a Quilt of Valor?
A Quilt of Valor is like a special blanket that is awarded to veterans in recognition for their military service. It’s made by volunteers all across America to honor and comfort those who have defended our country.
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Who designs and makes the quilts?
Quilts of Valor are created by volunteers who belong to the Quilts of Valor Foundation. This includes folks from all walks of life – everybody from professional quilters to folks who have never sewn before but want to show thanks. Basically, anyone can pitch in and lend their skills to the cause!
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What materials are used to make the quilts?
Most Quilts of Valor are made using 100% cotton fabrics in bright, patterned designs. This lets the vets know someone took the time to pick out special fabrics just for them! Volunteers may add their personal touches too, like including patriotic fabrics or family photos layered between the quilt layers. On the other hand, some quilts use warmer fabrics for colder climates.
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How long does it take to make each quilt?
The amount of time spent on each quilt varies depending on its size and design complexity. A simple tied quilt might just take a day, but an intricate hand-quilted one could require a few months of labor. Strangely, I once heard about a group that whipped up 100 quilts in a single weekend – they must have been real whiz kids! On average though, volunteers donate between 30-50 hours per quilt. It’s clearly a labor of love.
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Who receives Quilts of Valor?
Any service member or veteran touched by war can be awarded a Quilt of Valor, regardless of branch of service or conflict. This includes members of the National Guard and reserves. Basically, if you’ve served in any capacity since 9/11, you’re eligible. Quilts are also given to families that have lost someone in military service.
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How can I nominate a veteran to receive a quilt?
It’s super easy to nominate someone deserving. Just go online to the Quilts of Valor Foundation website and fill out a nomination form with the vet’s name and contact info. Alternatively, you can submit nominations directly through participating quilting guilds or at award ceremonies across the country. The foundation aims to ensure no one who has served is overlooked.
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How do quilt presentations work?
When a quilt is ready, it gets presented to the vet at a special ceremony. Groups often invite friends, family and local officials. However, private presentations are also an option. During the ceremony, folks share stories about the recipient’s service and bravery. And of course, everyone applauds as the vet accepts their quilt with obvious pride and gratitude. It’s truly an honor for all involved!