Lake Anna Connections

marriage he had never seen me use an iron! I actually had to go buy an ironing board.” Thenational organizationcalledQuilts of Val- or Foundation had its start in 2003when the son of its founder, Catherine Roberts, was deployed in Iraq. She actually had a dream – more of a nightmare – about him being in danger, then envisioned him wrapped in a comforting quilt. That inspired her to make quilts for veterans. The “healing” quilts had to be either machine or hand-stitched and, as she said on the organiza- tion’s website, “would say unequivocally, ‘Thank you for your service, sacrifice, and valor.’” Quilts are “awarded, not just passed out,” the organization notes. Official chapters dot the states, but other sewing groups are always welcome to participate, and the Louisa group is eager to have more quilters. Veteran Melvin Edwards, seated with Steven Summerville, is awarded a Quilt of Valor by Tina Chaleki on left and Regina Howell (photo by Richard Hinde Photography). Tech. Sgt. George H. Marshall in England after WWII (submitted photo). WWW.LAKEANNACONNECTIONS.COM 48