Seven local veterans will be honored Thursday at a public Quilts of Valor ceremony in Cassville.

The event begins at approximately 11:30 a.m. at the Cassville Senior Center, 1111 Fair Street, Cassville.

Veterans will be covered with a patriotic quilt while personal stories of service are shared. The Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks, which formally organized in Kimberling City in April 2024, is coordinating the event. The local chapter is one of more than 600 across the U.S., each operated by volunteers providing high-quality quilts — costing about $400 each — and logistical support.

The ceremony is meant to comfort veterans, offering public appreciation for their service. Organizers say the goal aligns with the national mission: “To cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.”

Recipients on Thursday include: Gary Clay, of Cassville; Larry Cowherd, of Cassville; John Callison, of Exeter; Larry Frakes, of Cassville; Kenneth West, of Washburn; Craig Jacobson, of Cassville; and Christy Henley, of Cassville.

A Quilt of Valor (QOV) is a handmade quilt, machine or hand quilted, awarded — not gifted — to someone “touched by war.” The presentation serves as an unequivocal “thank you” for their service and sacrifice.

Founded nationally in 2003 by Catherine Roberts — whose son was deployed in Iraq — the Quilts of Valor Foundation arose from her dream of comforting veterans through quilts. The first award was at Walter Reed Army Medical Center that November. Since then, the foundation has grown rapidly; as of May 31 volunteers have awarded more than 413,900 quilts nationwide.

Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks serves the Ozark region of Missouri. The group raises its own funds through donations and volunteer efforts, covering quilt supplies, construction and event costs.

The foundation emphasizes quality and symbolism. Each quilt reflects three layers: the top symbolizes community, the batting warmth signifies comfort and peace, and the backing represents strength in veterans and support systems. Each stitch is intended as a gesture of gratitude, healing and recognition.

The Thursday ceremony at the Cassville Senior Center is free and open to all. Attendees will witness the symbolic act of wrapping veterans in quilts that embody national thanks and community support.