Lamar Veterans Honored with Quilts of Valor

Four local service members receive handmade quilts in recognition of their sacrifice and service.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:51am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a veteran's hands holding a handmade quilt, the quilt's patterns and colors blurred into soft, warm pools of light, conceptually representing the healing and comfort provided by the Quilts of Valor program.The Quilts of Valor ceremony in Lamar provided a touching moment of community appreciation for local veterans' service and sacrifice.Lamar Today

In a special ceremony held in Lamar, Missouri, four local veterans were presented with Quilts of Valor, a nationwide program that provides handmade quilts to those who have served in the military. The quilts, each featuring the recipient's name, rank, and branch, were given as a symbol of gratitude from the community.

Why it matters

The Quilts of Valor program was founded in 2003 to honor and comfort veterans and service members touched by war. By recognizing these four Lamar veterans, the community is showing its appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served their country.

The details

During the ceremony at Barton County Memorial Park, volunteers carefully presented each veteran with a handmade quilt, sewing in their name, rank, and branch of service. The quilts are meant to serve as a symbol of healing and comfort for those who have experienced the hardships of war.

  • The ceremony took place on March 29, 2026.

The players

Quilts of Valor Foundation

A national nonprofit organization that provides handmade quilts to veterans and service members as a symbol of appreciation and healing.

Gerland McDaniel

An Army veteran who was one of the four recipients of a Quilt of Valor during the ceremony.

Brenden Kelly

A volunteer who spoke about the importance of the Quilts of Valor program and the community's love for veterans.

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What they’re saying

“Just being able to say thank you and just being able to say we appreciate all their service. I think that's where it really comes from. Just this community is loving the veterans and the impacts they made on our country.”

— Brenden Kelly, Volunteer

“If I know a veteran that's served, I would highly recommend that they would be recognized. I think there's a lot more of them out there that deserves more of this than me, but I do appreciate the people that did nominate me and I want to thank them.”

— Gerland McDaniel, Army Veteran

What’s next

The Quilts of Valor Foundation plans to continue honoring veterans in Lamar and across the country, with the goal of reaching over 500,000 recipients by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

The Quilts of Valor ceremony in Lamar demonstrates the community's deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by local veterans. By wrapping these service members in handmade quilts, the town is providing a tangible symbol of gratitude and healing that will continue to resonate long after the event.