Strathmere’s man-about-town, Tom Leonard (pictured above), was recently honored for his service to our country by the Quilts of Valor. This is a non-profit foundation whose mission is “to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” The Foundation was begun in 2003 by Catherine Roberts of Seaford, Delaware.
Tom received his Quilt of Valor on Saturday, April 8, at the Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal.
July 2018
Photo by Rosemarie Whelan
His service to our country was as a member of the Military Sealift Command from 1966 to 1972. In this capacity, some of Tom’s duties included “sailing on ships which were transporting tanks and ammunition to Viet Nam; taking Apollo moon rockets from Seal Beach, California to Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and surveying the bottom of the ocean, so that submarines could more easily navigate the waters.”
In discussing the quilt, Tom noted that a certificate is presented with the quilt. He also pointed out that sewed into the quilt is a 5x5” patch, which gives information as to “who made the quilt and what state they live in.” Tom also noted that a “patriotic pillow case” in which to keep the quilt, was also given to him.
In his remarks upon being presented the quilt on April 8, Tom stated that “it was a great honor to receive this Quilt of Valor.”
For further information about Quilts of Valor, please visit QOVF.org.