CORNING, N.Y. (WENY) -- For veterans receiving a Quilt of Valor, the experience goes beyond a personal tribute. It's a symbol of recognition for everyone who has served, especially those who didn't always get the honor they deserved.
One of those recipients at an event at the Corning American Legion Monday was Carol Tomes, a former U.S. Navy hospital corpsman. For her, being wrapped in a Quilt of Valor on Veterans Day held deep meaning.
"For me it's not so much about me as it is, for, like, looking out for our other veterans," says Tomes. "As they spoke today, our Vietnam veterans came back and were not honored, and so more for me, it's honoring those, every single person who ever signed up, who ever served, no matter what they did. It takes a village, so that's what it means to me. "
Tomes' quilt was crafted by members of Broome County's Hands-On Homemakers, a group dedicated to making kind gestures in the community out of the goodness of their hearts. On Veterans Day, the young group of kids was honored to present a quilt to Tomes in recognition of her service.
"I think it's really important that we can acknowledge the service they gave us," says a 12-year-old member of Hands-on Homemakers.
Greg Fonseca, also a veteran of service in the U.S. Army and later in the National Guard, reflected on the pride and sense of community that comes with receiving a Quilt of Valor.
"I've always had a strong respect for veterans after serving. I believe that earning the title as a veteran was probably one of the proudest moments of my life. I have family members that serve, close friends. I have lifelong friends that I served with," says Tomes.
Each quilt symbolizes the gratitude of a community that is thankful for the sacrifices and dedication of its veterans. This Veterans Day, Quilts of Valor are providing warmth, respect, and recognition to those who served, wrapping them in heartfelt reminder their service is appreciated.