Residents gathered at the Louisa Arts Center on Flag Day for a ceremony honoring local veterans through the presentation of Quilts of Valor, a national initiative recognizing the service and sacrifice of military members.

Hosted by the Louisa Arts Center in partnership with the Quilts of Valor Foundation and Common Threads of Louisa, the event brought together veterans, family members and community support for an afternoon of reflection, gratitude and individualized recognition. The ceremony was opened with a performance by the U.S. Fleet Forces Brass Quintet, followed by opening remarks from Virginia State Coordinator Kim Payne.

“We gather for a purpose that is both simple and profound,” Payne said. “To honor the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans.”

Founded in 2003 by Blue Star mother Catherine Roberts, the Quilts of Valor Foundation began with the dream of comforting a wounded soldier. Roberts’ vision has grown into a nationwide effort with more than 447,000 quilts crafted and awarded to veterans who were touched by war.

“Each quilt represents a grateful nation’s appreciation for military service and sacrifice,” Payne said. “A quilt of valor is much more than fabric and thread.”

Payne described the symbolic meaning behind each quilt, explaining that its three layers represent service, comfort and support.

“The top represents the veteran’s visible service, sacrifice and commitment. The batting in the center represents strength, hope, comfort and healing. The backing symbolizes the support of family, friends, and community who have stood behind our veterans throughout their journey,” Payne said. “The stitching that holds these layers together represents the many hands and hearts that work together to create each quilt. Each stitch is sewn with gratitude, every block is assembled with appreciation, and every quilt carries a message that says thank you for your service.”

Payne emphasized the emotional impact that the program has, sharing the story of a Vietnam veteran whose response to receiving a quilt was, “This is the first time I have ever been thanked for what I did: serve my country. For the first time in many years, I felt human again.”

“Those 28 words capture the heart of what we do,” Payne said.

For many Vietnam veterans, she mentioned, the quilts represent an overdue welcome symbol of gratitude after returning home to limited public support.

“A quilt of valor cannot erase painful memories, heal wounds, or restore lost years, but it can communicate something many veterans desperately need to hear,” she said. “Your service mattered, your sacrifice mattered, and your nation has not forgotten.”

Tina Chaleki, a volunteer with the foundation, emphasized the importance of giving back to those who have served.

“For the veterans, it’s a small way of saying ‘thank you,’” she said. “You just don’t realize the impact you have.”

The ceremony honored several local veterans, each with a unique story of dedication and achievement.

Rosemary Sirocco, a United States Marine Corps veteran, served from 1978 to 1991, retiring as a sergeant after 13 years. During her service, she worked in administration, maintaining personnel records that ensured Marines received proper recognition and accountability throughout their careers. She also earned the Marine Corps’ highest marksmanship award four times and competed on a championship softball team.

Accepting her quilt, Sirocco reflected on her service. “You all tell me, ‘It is our great honor to award you a quilt of valor.’ I will tell you, it was an honor to serve.”

Air Force veteran Theodore Carl Hallberg served for 23 years, retiring as a master sergeant. His career included work on the Air Combat Command Inspector General team, where he evaluated military readiness and operational effectiveness. Hallberg said he took pride in knowing his work contributed directly to national defense.

Carl Hofner, who served in the United States Army and Army National Guard from 1967 to 1970, was recognized for his leadership as a platoon sergeant with the 1st Cavalry Division. He has been described as a dependable and respected leader who exemplified the professionalism of non-commissioned officers.

Reflecting on his service, Hofner said, “I was proud to serve my country. The time I did, I’m proud of it – no regrets.”

Senior Chief Kelly Shipes served 25 years in the United States Navy, beginning her career as an electrician before transitioning into logistics. She worked hard to ensure personnel had the resources necessary to complete their missions. After retiring, she continued her commitment to service through volunteer work with veterans organizations and local advisory boards.

Frank William Shiplet Jr., a Marine Corps veteran, served during the Vietnam War as a rifleman with the 2nd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment, a unit known for its role in the Siege of Khe Sanh. His service was recognized with the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

Benjamin Larry Snow, who served 27 years in the United States Navy, retired as a chief after a career that began as a diesel mechanic and advanced to overseeing major engineering operations. Known for his craftsmanship, Snow later pursued work in welding and carpentry, building homes and continuing to apply the discipline he developed during his military service.

In addition to honoring the veterans, the ceremony also recognized the sacrifices of their families. The foundation acknowledged the spouses, children and parents who supported service members through deployments, separations and the challenges of military life.

“Military service is rarely a journey traveled alone,” Payne said.

As the ceremony concluded, Payne said the quilts transitioned from simple fabric and thread into powerful symbols of service, sacrifice, courage and gratitude.

“To our veterans,” Payne said, “your service matters. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.”