BIG SPRING, TX — In a touching ceremony at the Sand Castle Small House Community Living Center, within the West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS), Local Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 47 Vice Commander, Mike Tarpley, U.S. Army Veteran, recently presented two Quilts of Valor to deserving recipients. Among those honored were World War II U.S. Navy Veteran JL Stevens and Mr. Keith Bass, U.S. Navy Veteran and the Medical Center Director of WTVAHCS.
The Quilts of Valor program, deeply rooted in patriotism and gratitude, is a nationwide initiative dedicated to honoring veterans and service members touched by war with comforting and meaningful quilts. These quilts symbolize the love, gratitude, and appreciation of a grateful nation for their service, sacrifice, and valor. Each quilt is handcrafted by dedicated volunteers who pour their hearts and souls into creating these tangible expressions of gratitude.
Mr. JL Stevens, a remarkable World War II Veteran, stood among the honorees, his legacy of bravery and service echoing through the decades. Serving with valor and distinction, Mr. Stevens played a pivotal role in history, supporting allied forces during the D-Day landings at Normandy and witnessing the momentous occasion when Japanese forces signed the instrument of peace aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Harbor, marking the end of World War II. His unwavering courage and sacrifices epitomize the spirit of the Greatest Generation, and it was a privilege to bestow upon him the honor of a Quilt of Valor.
In addition to honoring Mr. Stevens, the ceremony also recognized Mr. Keith Bass, U.S. Navy Veteran and the Medical Center Director of WTVAHCS. Mr. Bass, who has dedicated his career to serving veterans and ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve, was deeply touched by the gesture. His leadership and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in enhancing the quality of care provided to veterans within the WTVAHCS community.
The presentation of the Quilts of Valor at the Sand Castle Small House Community Living Center was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the importance of honoring their service.
These quilts, stitched with love and gratitude, serve as tangible symbols of the nation’s enduring appreciation for their bravery and sacrifice.
As we reflect on the significance of this ceremony, let us not only honor the veterans who received these quilts but also express our gratitude to the dedicated volunteers who tirelessly work to create them. Their unwavering commitment ensures that the spirit of patriotism and appreciation continues to thrive, reminding us all of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have served.
Photos and information by: Michael Cole, WTVAHC Public Affairs Officer, and U.S. Navy Veteran
Mr. Mike Tarpley (L) presents a Quilt of Valor to WWII U.S. Navy Veteran Mr. JL Stevens at a ceremony held at the West Texas VA Health Care System’s Sand Castle Small House Community Living Center, as WTVAHCS Director, and U.S. Navy Veteran, Mr. Keith Bass looks on.
Mike Tarpley (L) presents a Quilt of Valor to WWII U.S. Navy Veteran Mr. JL Stevens at a ceremony held at the West Texas VA Health Care System’s Sand Castle Small House Community Living Center, as WTVAHCS Director, and U.S. Navy Veteran, Mr. Keith Bass looks on.
West Texas VA Health Care System Medical Center Director, and U.S. Navy Veteran Mr. Keith Bass is presented a Quilt of Valor by Big Spring DAV Chapter Vice Commander Mr. Mike Tarpley at a ceremony held at the West Texas VA Health Care System’s Sand Castle Small House Community Living Center.
West Texas VA Health Care System Medical Center Director, and U.S. Navy Veteran Mr. Keith Bass is presented a Quilt of Valor by Big Spring DAV Chapter Vice Commander Mr. Mike Tarpley at a ceremony held at the West Texas VA Health Care System’s Sand Castle Small House Community Living Center.
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