Vietnam Veteran honored with Quilt of Valor in Chelan Valley ceremony

CHELAN—Vietnam veteran Daniel Smith was honored with a handmade quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation, which recognized his military service and contributions to the community.

The Lake Chelan Valley chapter of the foundation presented Smith, a member of VFW Post 6853, with a red, white, and blue comforter crafted by the local Thimblebuns quilting group. The ceremony took place at Lake Chelan Winery, marking the beginning of Fourth of July week celebrations.

Smith's military career began in his teenage years in Maine, where he joined his high school's Army ROTC program. He continued with ROTC at the University of Maine, eventually rising to the position of Brigade Commander, overseeing 1,400 cadets.

After college, Smith was promoted to Captain while serving in the Corps of Engineers at Fort Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. He later saw active duty in Vietnam, commanding a Combat Engineer Battalion in the central highlands.

Tracy Shaw, a presenter and quilter, emphasized the importance of the Quilts of Valor program in bringing comfort and healing to veterans, particularly those who faced challenges upon returning from Vietnam amid a divided nation.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation, established in 2003, has awarded over 382,000 quilts to veterans nationwide. Smith's nomination came from Kristin Ashley, Commander of VFW Rodeo Post 6813 in Kittitas, who attended the ceremony and highlighted Smith's longstanding commitment to the VFW.

Vicki Olson Carr contributed to this report.