By Helena Adeloju
Two ex-service men have received Quilt of Valour awards in recognition of their military service.
The 2 C’s Sew and Chat Group presented 98-year old Rat of Tobruk Harry Crick with his award at a luncheon on Wednesday 7 June. Norm Joseph was unable to receive his award in person due to ill health.
Yvonne Stephenson, who founded the sewing group eight years ago, said the presentation lunch which she held at her home was a proud occasion.
The group began sewing quilts to present to returned servicemen after Yvonne saw a story about Quilts of Valour Australia in the newspaper.
“The quilts are given to men who have served their country to say thank you,” she said.
“Last year we presented two Quilts of Valour, and we are so happy to have another two to award this year.”
She said the awards were made possible by president of the Pakenham RSL sub-branch Gary Elliot’s servicemen nominations and the industrious work of her fellow quilters.
Over the years the 2 C’s Sew and Chat group have given hundreds of quilts to soldiers, women and children who have experienced abuse, local hospital to give to the parents of new born babies as well as to church groups to gift to homeless and vulnerable people.
“We meet to work on our projects together, to have fun and to give quilts to charity,” Ms Stephenson said.
She said Mr Crick was thrilled with his new quilt and described him as “the life of the party” at the presentation lunch.
“He was the happiest man alive,” she said.
