Veterans Honored with Handmade Quilts at Urgent Ceremony Today

UPDATE: Five veterans from the Reata Glen Retirement Community in Mission Viejo, California, were honored today during an emotional Veterans Day ceremony, receiving handmade quilts as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for their service. This annual event, held on November 11, 2025, brought together dozens of residents and volunteers who dedicated the past year to crafting these special quilts.

The ceremony featured a touching presentation of Quilts of Valor, honoring veterans from both World War II and the Korean War. Among the honorees was Robert DeLue, a U.S. Army veteran who served in WWII from 1944-1947. DeLue, who turns 99 on November 18, expressed profound appreciation for the honor, stating, “I’ve never been happier than I am now.”

Another veteran, Stan Solin, 95, served in the Army’s Counterintelligence Corps during the Korean War and shared his experience of conducting approximately 2,000 investigations in civilian clothes. Despite his significant contributions, Solin admitted feeling “embarrassed” to be recognized, saying, “I didn’t duck any bullets.”

The ceremony was emceed by Bob Geltz, a retired Marine Corps Captain, who welcomed guests with heartfelt remarks celebrating the service of all veterans. The event featured a traditional Presentation of Colors, where residents proudly carried flags, symbolizing respect and honor for their fellow service members.

Close to 20 residents at Reata Glen dedicated their time and skills over the past year to sew these quilts, guided by longtime quilter Joanne Schaum. What began as a personal project to honor her husband and a friend expanded into a community-wide initiative, celebrating five veterans each year. Co-director Marion Yerxa, a military family member, emphasized the mission’s emotional significance, stating, “It was done out of love and respect and admiration.”

The Quilts of Valor Foundation has presented over 427,000 quilts since its inception in 2003, fulfilling a vital role in recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans. Today’s ceremony served as a reminder of the community’s appreciation for those who served, with emotional moments shared among families and friends.

As the Reata Glen community continues to honor its residents, the impact of these quilts resonates deeply, providing warmth not just in fabric, but in the love and respect they embody. The event marks yet another year of tradition and gratitude, ensuring that the sacrifices of these brave individuals are never forgotten.

Stay tuned for more updates on how communities across the nation are honoring their veterans this Veterans Day.