The Garwin Community and members of the Quilt-Sew-society Presented Quilts of Valor to several area men during the July 4th Celebration. The quilts are but a small way of recognizing those honored for their selfless sacrifices to our country. Pictured in front: Kendall Starits, Frank Pointeck, Richard Dunsmoor and Don Dieleman. In back are Bruce Hildebaugh, William Anderson and Curtis Balmer. PHOTO BY MARGARET THOMSEN

GARWIN — Seven area men were presented with a Quilt of Valor during ceremonies on July 4th weekend. Originally scheduled for the Garwin City Park, the event was moved to the GMG Gym. The Central Iowa Quilt Sew-society was on hand to help with the presentations.

The Quilts of Valor was the brainchild of Blue Star Mom Catherine Roberts of Seaford, Delaware. Her son had been deployed to Iraq and she wanted to see the returning warriors welcomed home with the love and gratitude they deserved. Since 2003 the Quilts of Valor has become a national grassroots community effort. The quilts are stitched with love, prayers and healing thoughts.

The sea of vibrant colors of the Quilts was as unique as the experience of each of those honored. These men willingly disrupted their lives and chose to serve their country. The following brief description of each honored person is but a “drop in the bucket” of the sacrifices each veteran made. Our country is deeply indebted to the following recipients.

William Anderson served in the US Marine Corp as a Critical Skills Operator, E-7 Gunnery Sergeant. He served during Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Curtis Balmer was with the United States Marine Corp from 2000-2009; He was Artillery Fire-Direction as a Sergeant in the Iraq War, 2005-2009.

Don Dieleman was with the Iowa Army-Army National Guard 1971-1991. As a First Sergeant he previously served as Operations Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant and Section Sergeant.

Richard Dunsmoor served his country in the United States Air Force as an Airman Second Class Cook.

Bruce Hildebaugh served as a Second Class Engine Man in the United States Navy.

Frank Pointeck was with the Army and Army National Guard from 1960-1985. He also served in the Vietnam War from 1961-1975.

Kendall Starits served his country in the United States Army from 1975-1978. He was a Specialist 4 with 63 H20.