Heartfelt Honors in Conway as Veterans Receive Quilts of Valor
Conway, SC — There’s something truly special about a warm quilt that wraps around your shoulders, and on Saturday, November 2, 2024, it became a powerful symbol of appreciation for our brave veterans in a touching ceremony held at the Horry County Museum. U.S. Air Force Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Barlow Luhn, was among the eleven veterans honored, receiving a Quilt of Valor from the dedicated members of the Conway Quilters Guild.
Remembering the Past
Barlow Luhn, who hails from Frederick, Maryland, returned home from the Vietnam War with more than just memories; he bore the scars of battle, including a bullet wound that earned him a Purple Heart. Back in those days, after returning from combat, there were no grand parades or cheering crowds. “It’s gonna stay in the family,” Luhn said, referring to the beautiful quilt bestowed upon him, which he promised would be cherished for generations to come.
The 77-year-old veteran reflected on how the world has changed over the decades. “It’s different now. Now we get recognition and respect,” he shared, recalling his harrowing experiences while guarding a U.S. Air Force base alongside his loyal canine companion during the Vietnam conflict.
A Quilting Legacy
The Quilt of Valor initiative started back in 2003 when Catherine Roberts, the founder, had a significant dream that cultivated this heartfelt mission. The notion of wrapping a warrior in a quilt to replace despair with hope resonated deeply with many. Fast forward to today, and the Conway Quilters Guild is making a tangible difference by crafting quilts for veterans all over the United States. In fact, this local chapter has created an impressive total of 537 quilts over the past decade, presented at 68 different ceremonies!
This past weekend’s event marked another proud moment for the guild, and individual stories touched hearts. Take Ralph Wurtz, for instance, originally from Norristown, Pennsylvania. He proudly served in the Navy from 1960 to 1980 and recounted how he met his wife and traveled the globe during his service. Family nominated him for this special honor, and he couldn’t be more thrilled to receive his quilt during his visit to the beach.
The Quilting Process
Making these quilts requires considerable time and talent. Diane Morris, who manages publicity for the Conway Quilters Guild, emphasized that each quilt represents about $1,000 worth of time, effort, and craftsmanship. During the ceremony, each veteran was called onto the stage, their service credentials and achievements read aloud to the audience, followed by the emotional unveiling of each unique quilt.
As two guild members gracefully wrapped the quilts around the honored veterans’ shoulders, applause erupted from the crowd of about 150 attendees. Each veteran also received a certificate suitable for framing, delivered in a handcrafted envelope, ensuring that this moment would last a lifetime in their hearts and homes.
A Month of Celebration
As Kathleen Armel, a past-president of the guild, emceed the event, she passionately encouraged all the veterans: “Use your quilt. Show it and use it proudly.” This event was just the beginning of a series of observances taking place throughout November, recognized as Military Family Appreciation Month, with Veterans Day approaching on the 11th. This day not only signifies the end of World War I in 1918 but also serves as a solemn celebration of all veterans’ sacrifices.
Conway will see many events pay tribute to our heroes. There’s an annual Veterans Day Ceremony happening at the World War II Memorial in Myrtle Beach, while other gatherings are set for Surfside Beach and the North Myrtle Beach Park. Additionally, Loris Women’s Coalition will host its own program on November 9, presenting five more Quilts of Valor to deserving veterans.
As Veterans Day draws near, students across Horry County will proudly hold their ceremonies in observance of the day, teaching the next generation the importance of honoring those who have served.
