In 2003, a quilter named Catherine Roberts started a movement that became Quilts of Valor (QOV) when her son was deployed in Iraq. Since that time, over 350,000 Quilts of Valor have been awarded nationwide. The Albert Lea American Legion Post 56 Auxiliary took on a project to make quilts and disperse them to our local veterans. The mission is to honor servicemembers and veterans who have been touched by was with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. These quilts say thank you for your service, sacrifice and valor in serving our nation.

Linda Harig initiated the QOV project at Post 56 and is one of the main quilters. The Auxiliary assists Linda with the presentation of the quilts. Our first Quilts of Valor presentation occurred in May 2023. Since May we have presented over a dozen quilts. Family and veterans who have attended this event find it very rewarding. The veterans and their families truly appreciate the quilt and the recognition of their service. The Auxiliary plans to continue this project.