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SPECIAL TO THE DAILY NEWS

On Monday, April 14, Sheriff Smith visited American Legion Magic City Post 24 for a special meeting, during which a Quilt of Valor was given to Washington Parish native Karon Breland. Breland is a U.S. Army Veteran who served as a Huey Helicopter mechanic in the 101st Airborne Division and deployed to Vietnam from September 1969 to September 1970.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation presents hand-made quilts to veterans in a show of appreciation for their service and sacrifice. Founded by Vietnam Veteran Gail Belmont in 2005, the organization has presented thousands of quilts to veterans across the nation. Each quilt is lovingly crafted by volunteers who aim to wrap veterans in comfort, healing, and honor.

Sheriff Smith read a Daily News article from 2000 that told the story of Breland reconnecting with a fellow service member years after they attended basic training together.

Smith said, “From me and all the other veterans in this room tonight, I think we can appreciate that sense of brotherhood. Thanks to Karon for his service and to Quilts of Honor for coming out tonight to help us show our appreciation.”

For more information about the Quilts of Honor Foundation or to learn how to nominate a veteran, visit www.quiltsofhonor.org.