More than 30 veterans were honored during a special ceremony to close out Emporia’s 2021 All Veterans Tribute Sunday.
The annual Quilts of Gratitude presentation was held Sunday afternoon inside the Lyon County Fairgrounds Anderson Building. The ceremony honors military members for their service with hand-made quilts stitched by members of Emporia’s Regional Quilters Guild.
A total of 34 quilts were crafted this year with the majority presented during Sunday’s ceremony. Among those taking home one of the quilts was Susan Howard the mother of Army Sgt. Matt Howard who was unable to attend Sunday’s presentation.
Howard says seeing her son recognized for his service was “overwhelming.”
Quilts of Gratitude Spokesperson Kathy Hamman of the Regional Quilters Guild says quilters never need a reason to put together a new project as it is what they love to do. However; she says it is always extra special when they can use their craft to honor the service and sacrifices of others.
Sunday’s ceremony saw quilts presented to both 2021 and 2020 honorees. Quilts of Gratitude follows Thursday’s Veterans activities which included the annual parade, memorial service and the Veterans Tribute Concert featuring Sarah Evans.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News