Molstead veterans receive Quilts of Valor

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

Area veterans of the armed forces received recognition and thanks on Friday, Nov. 24, as the local Quilts of Valor organization presented five newly handcrafted quilts.

Started in 2003, with the Floyd County chapter beginning in 2019, Quilts of Valor is a program that works to provide a piece of tangible comfort to veterans nationwide.

Mary Williams of Quilts of Valor hosted the presentation, thanking the veterans and their families for their service before draping each veteran in a custom made quilt.

“These quilts are an expression of gratitude meant to thank and comfort you,” said Williams.

Receiving quilts were Paul Ritter (Air Force 1981-85); Mark Eakes (Marine Corps 1982-89); his son, Steven Eakes (Marine Corps 2012-18); Darren Trettin (Navy 2002-07); and Jeffrey True (Army 2006-13).

Quilts were pieced and quilted by Sue Heitbrink, Teresa Landt, Mary Williams, Jen Burton, Adrienne O’Neill, Mariam Leaman, Joyce Laffee and QoV North Central Iowa Group. The quilts were draped over the receiving veterans by Wyona Stewart, Becky Lindaman, Julie DeBower, and Jen Burton.

A unique aspect of the presentation came from the fact that nearly all of the veterans that received quilts are employees of Mike Molstead Motors in Charles City, prompting the company to host the ceremony. Along with Ritter, the Eakeses, Trittin and True, veteran Lezlie Weber was also acknowledged and brought the quilt she had previously received.

“We’re a proud American car company and we’re super proud of what all six of them gave to our country,” said Mike Molstead.