COLVILLE, Wash. — Gene Weller, a U.S. Army veteran who lives in Republic, Washington, was announced as the winner of the Veterans Quilt Project and received a hand-made quilt from the Tri-County Economic Development District (TEDD).
Weller was drafted into the Army in 1961, only two months after marrying his wife, Bobbi. Weller was sent to Fort Ord, California for his basic training. From there he went to Fort Lee, Virginia and then was sent to Germany where he spent two years as the Company Armor and Mail Clerk.
Weller's wife Bobbi said “By the way, he loves his quilt and puts it on his lap every night when he sits and watches TV. Tell the ladies, thank you again!”
The quilters who made the quilt, Judy Lockner and Valerie Lamont have created dozens of quilts that have all found homes with local veterans.
“We hope that the quilts will offer comfort and underline our appreciation for their many sacrifices,” Lamont said.
The quilting duo has already made and delivered the next quilt to be given away to TEDD World Headquarters, where it will be on display until the December TEDD Board of Directors meeting when the next winner will be drawn.
The Veterans Quilt project invites veterans from the Tri-County area to participate in the free drawing for a chance to win the next quilt. Community members are also encouraged to enter on behalf of veterans they know. Entries can be submitted online at the Veteran's Quilt Program website or in person at the TEDD office during regular office hours, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“I have always felt the need to do something for a veteran as they do so much for us,” said Lockner. “I would have the best Christmas knowing my quilt was keeping a veteran warm.”
